Tunnel-type digital imaging system for use within retail shopping environments such as supermarkets

ABSTRACT

A tunnel-type digital imaging system for use within retail shopping environments such as supermarkets. The system includes a tunnel configuration arranged about a conveyor structure for transporting objects therethrough, and an image capturing and processing subsystem embodied within the tunnel configuration, for generating a 3D digital imaging volume above the conveyor structure and within the tunnel configuration, for capturing digital images of objects transported through the 3D imaging volume. The image capturing and processing subsystem includes a plurality of illumination and imaging stations. Each station includes a 2D imaging array having optics providing a 3D field of view (FOV) on the 2D imaging array that is projected and extends into the 3D imaging volume, and one or more light emitting devices configured together to produce a illumination beam that extends into the 3D FOV of the 2D imaging array. A digital image processing subsystem processing digital images of objects passing through the 3D imaging volume, and a system control subsystem controls and/or orchestrates the coplanar illumination and imaging subsystems during system operation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED U.S. APPLICATIONS

This is a Continuation of copending application Ser. No. 11/471,470 filed Jun. 20, 2006; which is a Continuation of copending application Ser. No. 10/164,845 filed Jun. 6, 2002; which is a Continuation-in-Part of: application Ser. No. 09/999,687 filed Oct. 31, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,070,106; application Ser. No. 09/954,477 filed Sep. 17, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,736,321; application Ser. No. 09/883,130 filed Jun. 15, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,830,189; which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 09/781,665 filed Feb. 12, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,742,707; application Ser. No. 09/780,027 filed Feb. 9, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,629,641; application Ser. No. 09/721,885 filed Nov. 24, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,631,842; application Ser. No. 09/047,146 filed Mar. 24, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,947; application Ser. No. 09/157,778 filed Sep. 21, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,517,004; application Ser. No. 09/274,265, filed Mar. 22, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,382,515; International Application Serial No. PCT/US/99/06505 filed Mar. 24, 1999, and published as WIPO WO 99/49411; application Ser. No. 09/327,756 filed Jun. 7, 1999, now abandoned; and International Application Serial No. PCT/US00/15624 filed Jun. 7, 2000, published as WIPO WO 00/75856 A1; each said application being commonly owned by Assignee, Metrologic Instruments, Inc., of Blackwood, N.J., and incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The present invention relates generally to improved methods of and apparatus for illuminating moving as well as stationary objects, such as parcels, during image formation and detection operations, and also to improved methods of and apparatus and instruments for acquiring and analyzing information about the physical attributes of such objects using such improved methods of object illumination, and digital image analysis.

2. Brief Description of the State of Knowledge in the Art

The use of image-based bar code symbol readers and scanners is well known in the field of auto-identification. Examples of image-based bar code symbol reading/scanning systems include, for example, hand-hand scanners, point-of-sale (POS) scanners, and industrial-type conveyor scanning systems.

Presently, most commercial image-based bar code symbol readers are constructed using charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensing/detecting technology. Unlike laser-based scanning technology, CCD imaging technology has particular illumination requirements which differ from application to application.

Most prior art CCD-based image scanners, employed in conveyor-type package identification systems, require high-pressure sodium, metal halide or halogen lamps and large, heavy and expensive parabolic or elliptical reflectors to produce sufficient light intensities to illuminate the large depth of field scanning fields supported by such industrial scanning systems. Even when the light from such lamps is collimated or focused using such reflectors, light strikes the target object other than where the imaging optics of the CCD-based camera are viewing. Since only a small fraction of the lamps output power is used to illuminate the CCD camera's field of view, the total output power of the lamps must be very high to obtain the illumination levels required along the field of view of the CCD camera. The balance of the output illumination power is simply wasted in the form of heat.

While U.S. Pat. No. 4,963,756 to Quan et al disclose a prior art CCD-based hand-held image scanner using a laser source and Scheimpflug optics for focusing a planar laser illumination beam reflected off a bar code symbol onto a 2-D CCD image detector, U.S. Pat. No. 5,192,856 to Schaham discloses a CCD-based hand-held image scanner which uses a LED and a cylindrical lens to produce a planar beam of LED-based illumination for illuminating a bar code symbol on an object, and cylindrical optics mounted in front a linear CCD image detector for projecting a narrow a field of view about the planar beam of illumination, thereby enabling collection and focusing of light reflected off the bar code symbol onto the linear CCD image detector.

Also, in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/190,273 entitled “Coplanar Camera” filed Mar. 17, 2000, by Chaleff et al., and published by WIPO on Sep. 27, 2001 as part of WIPO Publication No. WO 01/72028 A1, both being incorporated herein by reference, there is disclosed a CCD camera system which uses an array of LEDs and a single apertured Fresnel-type cylindrical lens element to produce a planar beam of illumination for illuminating a bar code symbol on an object, and a linear CCD image detector mounted behind the apertured Fresnel-type cylindrical lens element so as to provide the linear CCD image detector with a field of view that is arranged with the planar extent of planar beam of LED-based illumination.

However, most prior art CCD-based hand-held image scanners use an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to flood the field of view of the imaging optics in such scanning systems. A large percentage of the output illumination from these LED sources is dispersed to regions other than the field of view of the scanning system. Consequently, only a small percentage of the illumination is actually collected by the imaging optics of the system, Examples of prior art CCD hand-held image scanners employing LED illumination arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. Re. 36,528, 5,777,314, 5,756,981, 5,627,358, 5,484,994, 5,786,582, and 6,123,261 to Roustaei, each assigned to Symbol Technologies, Inc. and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In such prior art CCD-based hand-held image scanners, an array of LEDs are mounted in a scanning head in front of a CCD-based image sensor that is provided with a cylindrical lens assembly. The LEDs are arranged at an angular orientation relative to a central axis passing through the scanning head so that a fan of light is emitted through the light transmission aperture thereof that expands with increasing distance away from the LEDs. The intended purpose of this LED illumination arrangement is to increase the “angular distance” and “depth of field” of CCD-based bar code symbol readers. However, even with such improvements in LED illumination techniques, the working distance of such hand-held CCD scanners can only be extended by using more LEDs within the scanning head of such scanners to produce greater illumination output therefrom, thereby increasing the cost, size and weight of such scanning devices.

Similarly, prior art “hold-under” and “hands-free presentation” type CCD-based image scanners suffer from shortcomings and drawbacks similar to those associated with prior art CCD-based hand-held image scanners.

Recently, there have been some technological advances made involving the use of laser illumination techniques in CCD-based image capture systems to avoid the shortcomings and drawbacks associated with using sodium-vapor illumination equipment, discussed above. In particular, U.S. Pat. No. 5,988,506 (assigned to Galore Scantec Ltd.), incorporated herein by reference, discloses the use of a cylindrical lens to generate from a single visible laser diode (VLD) a narrow focused line of laser light which fans out an angle sufficient to fully illuminate a code pattern at a working distance. As disclosed, mirrors can be used to fold the laser illumination beam towards the code pattern to be illuminated in the working range of the system. Also, a horizontal linear lens array consisting of lenses is mounted before a linear CCD image array, to receive diffused reflected laser light from the code symbol surface. Each single lens in the linear lens array forms its own image of the code line illuminated by the laser illumination beam. Also, subaperture diaphragms are required in the CCD array plane to (i) differentiate image fields, (ii) prevent diffused reflected laser light from passing through a lens and striking the image fields of neighboring lenses, and (iii) generate partially-overlapping fields of view from each of the neighboring elements in the lens array. However, while avoiding the use of external sodium vapor illumination equipment, this prior art laser-illuminated CCD-based image capture system suffers from several significant shortcomings and drawbacks. In particular, it requires very complex image forming optics which makes this system design difficult and expensive to manufacture, and imposes a number of undesirable constraints which are very difficult to satisfy when constructing an auto-focus/auto-zoom image acquisition and analysis system for use in demanding applications.

When detecting images of target objects illuminated by a coherent illumination source (e.g. a VLD), “speckle” (i.e. substrate or paper) noise is typically modulated onto the laser illumination beam during reflection/scattering, and ultimately speckle-noise patterns are produced at the CCD image detection array, severely reducing the signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio of the CCD camera system. In general, speckle-noise patterns are generated whenever the phase of the optical field is randomly modulated. The prior art system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,988,506 fails to provide any way of, or means for reducing speckle-noise patterns produced at its CCD image detector thereof, by its coherent laser illumination source.

The problem of speckle-noise patterns in laser scanning systems is mathematically analyzed in the twenty-five (25) slide show entitled “Speckle Noise and Laser Scanning Systems” by Sasa Kresic-Juric, Emanuel Marom and Leonard Bergstein, of Symbol Technologies, Holtsville, N.Y., published at http://www.ima.umn.edu/industrial/99-2000/kresic/sld001.httm, and incorporated herein by reference. Notably, Slide 11/25 of this WWW publication summaries two generally well known methods of reducing speckle-noise by superimposing statistically independent (time-varying) speckle-noise patterns: (1) using multiple laser beams to illuminate different regions of the speckle-noise scattering plane (i.e. object); or (2) using multiple laser beams with different wavelengths to illuminate the scattering plane. Also, the celebrated textbook by J.C. Dainty, et al, entitled “Laser Speckle and Related Phenomena” (Second edition), published by Springer-Verlag, 1994, incorporated herein by reference, describes a collection of techniques which have been developed by others over the years in effort to reduce speckle-noise patterns in diverse application environments.

However, the prior art generally fails to disclose, teach or suggest how such prior art speckle-reduction techniques might be successfully practiced in laser illuminated CCD-based camera systems.

Thus, there is a great need in the art for an improved method of and apparatus for illuminating the surface of objects during image formation and detection operations, and also an improved method of and apparatus for producing digital images using such improved methods object illumination, while avoiding the shortcomings and drawbacks of prior art illumination, imaging and scanning systems and related methodologies.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Accordingly, a primary object of the present invention is to provide an improved method of and system for illuminating the surface of objects during image formation and detection operations and also improved methods of and systems for producing digital images using such improved methods object illumination, while avoiding the shortcomings and drawbacks of prior art systems and methodologies.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such an improved method of and system for illuminating the surface of objects using a linear array of laser light emitting devices configured together to produce a substantially planar beam of laser illumination which extends in substantially the same plane as the field of view of the linear array of electronic image detection cells of the system, along at least a portion of its optical path within its working distance.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such an improved method of and system for producing digital images of objects using a visible laser diode array for producing a planar laser illumination beam for illuminating the surfaces of such objects, and also an electronic image detection array for detecting laser light reflected off the illuminated objects during illumination and imaging operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved method of and system for illuminating the surfaces of object to be imaged, using an array of planar laser illumination modules which employ VLDs that are smaller, and cheaper, run cooler, draw less power, have longer lifetimes, and require simpler optics (i.e. because the spectral bandwidths of VLDs are very small compared to the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum).

Another object of the present invention is to provide such an improved method of and system for illuminating the surfaces of objects to be imaged, wherein the VLD concentrates all of its output power into a thin laser beam illumination plane which spatially coincides exactly with the field of view of the imaging optics of the system, so very little light energy is wasted.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) system, wherein the working distance of the system can be easily extended by simply changing the beam focusing and imaging optics, and without increasing the output power of the visible laser diode (VLD) sources employed therein.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein each planar laser illumination beam is focused so that the minimum width thereof (e.g. 0.6 mm along its non-spreading direction) occurs at a point or plane which is the farthest object distance at which the system is designed to capture images.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein a fixed focal length imaging subsystem is employed, and the laser beam focusing technique of the present invention helps compensate for decreases in the power density of the incident planar illumination beam due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases for increasing distances away from the imaging subsystem.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein scanned objects need only be illuminated along a single plane which is coplanar with a planar section of the field of view of the image formation and detection module being used in the PLIIM system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein the planar laser illumination technique enables modulation of the spatial and/or temporal intensity of the transmitted planar laser illumination beam, and use of simple (i.e. substantially monochromatic) lens designs for substantially monochromatic optical illumination and image formation and detection operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein the imaging module is realized as an array of electronic image detection cells (e.g. CCD) having short integration time settings for performing high-speed image capture operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays are mounted about an image formation and detection module having a field of view, so as to produce a substantially planar laser illumination beam which is coplanar with the field of view during object illumination and imaging operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, wherein an image formation and detection module projects a field of view through a first light transmission aperture formed in the system housing, and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays project a pair of planar laser illumination beams through second set of light transmission apertures which are optically isolated from the first light transmission aperture to prevent laser beam scattering within the housing of the system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging system, the principle of Gaussian summation of light intensity distributions is employed to produce a planar laser illumination beam having a power density across the width the beam which is substantially the same for both far and near fields of the system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, which is capable of (1) acquiring and analyzing in real-time the physical attributes of objects such as, for example, (i) the surface reflectivity characteristics of objects, (ii) geometrical characteristics of objects, including shape measurement, (iii) the motion (i.e. trajectory) and velocity of objects, as well as (iv) bar code symbol, textual, and other information-bearing structures disposed thereon, and (2) generating information structures representative thereof for use in diverse applications including, for example, object identification, tracking, and/or transportation/routing operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, wherein a multi-wavelength (i.e. color-sensitive) Laser Doppler Imaging and Profiling (LDIP) subsystem is provided for acquiring and analyzing (in real-time) the physical attributes of objects such as, for example, (i) the surface reflectivity characteristics of objects, (ii) geometrical characteristics of objects, including shape measurement, and (iii) the motion (i.e. trajectory) and velocity of objects.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, wherein an image formation and detection (i.e. camera) subsystem is provided having (i) a planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) subsystem, (ii) intelligent auto-focus/auto-zoom imaging optics, and (iii) a high-speed electronic image detection array with height/velocity-driven photo-integration time control to ensure the capture of images having constant image resolution (i.e. constant dpi) independent of package height.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, wherein an advanced image-based bar code symbol decoder is provided for reading 1-D and 2-D bar code symbol labels on objects, and an advanced optical character recognition (OCR) processor is provided for reading textual information, such as alphanumeric character strings, representative within digital images that have been captured and lifted from the system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system which enables bar code symbol reading of linear and two-dimensional bar codes, OCR-compatible image lifting, dimensioning, singulation, object (e.g. package) position and velocity measurement, and label-to-parcel tracking from a single overhead-mounted housing measuring less than or equal to 20 inches in width, 20 inches in length, and 8 inches in height.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system which employs a built-in source for producing a planar laser illumination beam that is coplanar with the field of view (FOV) of the imaging optics used to form images on an electronic image detection array, thereby eliminating the need for large, complex, high-power power consuming sodium vapor lighting equipment used in conjunction with most industrial CCD cameras.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, wherein the all-in-one (i.e. unitary) construction simplifies installation, connectivity, and reliability for customers as it utilizes a single input cable for supplying input (AC) power and a single output cable for outputting digital data to host systems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, wherein such systems can be configured to construct multi-sided tunnel-type imaging systems, used in airline baggage-handling systems, as well as in postal and parcel identification, dimensioning and sortation systems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system, for use in (i) automatic checkout solutions installed within retail shopping environments (e.g. supermarkets), (ii) security and people analysis applications, (iii) object and/or material identification and inspection systems, as well as (iv) diverse portable, in-counter and fixed applications in virtual any industry.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary object attribute acquisition and analysis system in the form of a high-speed object identification and attribute acquisition system, wherein the PLIIM subsystem projects a field of view through a first light transmission aperture formed in the system housing, and a pair of planar laser illumination beams through second and third light transmission apertures which are optically isolated from the first light transmission aperture to prevent laser beam scattering within the housing of the system, and the LDIP subsystem projects a pair of laser beams at different angles through a fourth light transmission aperture.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a fully automated unitary-type package identification and measuring system contained within a single housing or enclosure, wherein a PLIIM-based scanning subsystem is used to read bar codes on packages passing below or near the system, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about attributes (i.e. features) about the package prior to being identified.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such an automated package identification and measuring system, wherein Laser Detecting And Ranging (LADAR) based scanning methods are used to capture two-dimensional range data maps of the space above a conveyor belt structure, and two-dimensional image contour tracing techniques and corner point reduction techniques are used to extract package dimension data therefrom.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a unitary system, wherein the package velocity is automatically computed using package range data collected by a pair of amplitude-modulated (AM) laser beams projected at different angular projections over the conveyor belt.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a system in which the lasers beams having multiple wavelengths are used to sense packages having a wide range of reflectivity characteristics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) system which employs high-resolution wavefront control methods and devices to reduce the power of speckle-noise patterns within digital images acquired by the system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a PLIIM-based system, in which planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) rich in spectral-harmonic components on the time-frequency domain are optically generated using principles based on wavefront spatio-temporal dynamics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a PLIIM-based system, in which planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) rich in spectral-harmonic components on the time-frequency domain are optically generated using principles based on wavefront non-linear dynamics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a PLIIM-based system, in which planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) rich in spectral-harmonic components on the spatial-frequency domain are optically generated using principles based on wavefront spatio-temporal dynamics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a PLIIM-based system, in which planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) rich in spectral-harmonic components on the spatial-frequency domain are optically generated using principles based on wavefront non-linear dynamics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a PLIIM-based system, in which planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) rich in spectral-harmonic components are optically generated using diverse electro-optical devices including, for example, micro-electro-mechanical devices (MEMs) (e.g. deformable micro-mirrors), optically-addressed liquid crystal (LC) light valves, liquid crystal (LC) phase modulators, micro-oscillating reflectors (e.g. mirrors or spectrally-tuned polarizing reflective CLC film material), micro-oscillating refractive-type phase modulators, micro-oscillating diffractive-type micro-oscillators, as well as rotating phase modulation discs, bands, rings and the like.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) system and method which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) and electronic image detection array which cooperate to effectively reduce the speckle-noise pattern observed at the image detection array of the PLIIM system by reducing or destroying either (i) the spatial and/or temporal coherence of the planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) produced by the PLIAs within the PLIIM system, or (ii) the spatial and/or temporal coherence of the planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) that are reflected/scattered off the target and received by the image formation and detection (IFD) subsystem within the PLIIM system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide “hybrid” despeckling methods and apparatus for use in conjunction with PLIIM-based systems employing linear (or area) electronic image detection arrays having vertically-elongated image detection elements, i.e. having a high height-to-width (H/W) aspect ratio.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel planar laser illumination and imaging module which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes having a plurality of different characteristic wavelengths residing within different portions of the visible band.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a novel PLIIM, wherein the visible laser diodes within the PLIA thereof are spatially arranged so that the spectral components of each neighboring visible laser diode (VLD) spatially overlap and each portion of the composite PLIB along its planar extent contains a spectrum of different characteristic wavelengths, thereby imparting multi-color illumination characteristics to the composite PLIB.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a novel PLIIM, wherein the multi-color illumination characteristics of the composite PLIB reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources in the PLIA, thereby reducing the RMS power of the speckle-noise pattern observed at the image detection array of the PLIIM.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel planar laser illumination and imaging module (PLIIM) which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs) which exhibit high “mode-hopping” spectral characteristics which cooperate on the time domain to reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources operating in the PLIA and produce numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns during each photo-integration time period, thereby reducing the RMS power of the speckle-noise pattern observed at the image detection array in the PLIIM.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel planar laser illumination and imaging module (PLIIM) which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs) which are “thermally-driven” to exhibit high “mode-hopping” spectral characteristics which cooperate on the time domain to reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources operating in the PLIA, and thereby reduce the speckle noise pattern observed at the image detection array in the PLIIM accordance with the principles of the present invention.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a unitary (PLIIM-based) object identification and attribute acquisition system, wherein the various information signals are generated by the LDIP subsystem, and provided to a camera control computer, and wherein the camera control computer generates digital camera control signals which are provided to the image formation and detection (IFD subsystem (i.e. “camera”) so that the system can carry out its diverse functions in an integrated manner, including (1) capturing digital images having (i) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (ii) significantly reduced speckle-noise levels, and (iii) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (dpi) independent of package height or velocity and without the use of costly telecentric optics employed by prior art systems, (2) automatic cropping of captured images so that only regions of interest reflecting the package or package label require image processing by the image processing computer, and (3) automatic image lifting operations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel bioptical-type planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) system for the purpose of identifying products in supermarkets and other retail shopping environments (e.g. by reading bar code symbols thereon), as well as recognizing the shape, texture and color of produce (e.g. fruit, vegetables, etc.) using a composite multi-spectral planar laser illumination beam containing a spectrum of different characteristic wavelengths, to impart multi-color illumination characteristics thereto.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a bioptical-type PLIIM-based system, wherein a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDS) which intrinsically exhibit high “mode-hopping” spectral characteristics which cooperate on the time domain to reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources operating in the PLIA, and thereby reduce the speckle-noise pattern observed at the image detection array of the PLIIM-based system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system comprising a pair of PLIIM-based package identification and dimensioning subsystems, wherein each PLIIM-based subsystem produces multi-spectral planar laser illumination, employs a 1-D CCD image detection array, and is programmed to analyze images of objects (e.g. produce) captured thereby and determine the shape/geometry, dimensions and color of such products in diverse retail shopping environments; and

Another object of the present invention is to provide a bioptical PLIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system comprising a pair of PLIM-based package identification and dimensioning subsystems, wherein each subsystem employs a 2-D CCD image detection array and is programmed to analyze images of objects (e.g. produce) captured thereby and determine the shape/geometry, dimensions and color of such products in diverse retail shopping environments.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a unitary object identification and attribute acquisition system comprising: a LADAR-based package imaging, detecting and dimensioning subsystem capable of collecting range data from objects on the conveyor belt using a pair of multi-wavelength (i.e. containing visible and IR spectral components) laser scanning beams projected at different angular spacings; a PLIIM-based bar code symbol reading subsystem for producing a scanning volume above the conveyor belt, for scanning bar codes on packages transported therealong; an input/output subsystem for managing the inputs to and outputs from the unitary system; a data management computer, with a graphical user interface (GUI), for realizing a data element queuing, handling and processing subsystem, as well as other data and system management functions; and a network controller, operably connected to the I/O subsystem, for connecting the system to the local area network (LAN) associated with the tunnel-based system, as well as other packet-based data communication networks supporting various network protocols (e.g. Ethernet, AppleTalk, etc).

Another object of the present invention is to provide a real-time camera control process carried out within a camera control computer in a PLIIM-based camera system, for intelligently enabling the camera system to zoom in and focus upon only the surfaces of a detected package which might bear package identifying and/or characterizing information that can be reliably captured and utilized by the system or network within which the camera subsystem is installed.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a real-time camera control process for significantly reducing the amount of image data captured by the system which does not contain relevant information, thus increasing the package identification performance of the camera subsystem, while using less computational resources, thereby allowing the camera subsystem to perform more efficiently and productivity.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a camera control computer for generating real-time camera control signals that drive the zoom and focus lens group translators within a high-speed auto-focus/auto-zoom digital camera subsystem so that the camera automatically captures digital images having (1) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (2) significantly reduced speckle-noise levels, and (3) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (dpi) independent of package height or velocity.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an auto-focus/auto-zoom digital camera system employing a camera control computer which generates commands for cropping the corresponding slice (i.e. section) of the region of interest in the image being captured and buffered therewithin, or processed at an image processing computer.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method of and apparatus for performing automatic recognition of graphical intelligence contained in 2-D images captured from arbitrary 3-D object surfaces.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such apparatus in the form of a PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition system which is capable of performing a novel method of recognizing graphical intelligence (e.g. symbol character strings and/or bar code symbols) contained in high-resolution 2-D images lifted from arbitrary moving 3-D object surfaces, by constructing high-resolution 3-D images of the object from (i) linear 3-D surface profile maps drawn by the LDIP subsystem in the PLIIM-based profiling and imaging system, and (ii) high-resolution linear images lifted by the PLIIM-based linear imaging subsystem thereof.

As will be described in greater detail in the Detailed Description of the Illustrative Embodiments set forth below, such objectives are achieved in novel methods of and systems for illuminating objects (e.g. bar coded packages, textual materials, graphical indicia, etc.) using planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics that extend through the field of view (FOV) of image formation and detection modules (e.g. realized within a CCD-type digital electronic camera, or a 35 mm optical-film photographic camera) employed in such systems.

In the illustrative embodiments of the present invention, the substantially planar light illumination beams are preferably produced from a planar laser illumination beam array (PLIA) comprising a plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs). Each PLIM comprises a visible laser diode (VLD), a focusing lens, and a cylindrical optical element arranged therewith. The individual planar laser illumination beam components produced from each PLIM are optically combined within the PLIA to produce a composite substantially planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire spatial extent thereof and thus the working range of the system, in which the PLIA is embodied.

Preferably, each planar laser illumination beam component is focused so that the minimum beam width thereof occurs at a point or plane which is the farthest or maximum object distance at which the system is designed to acquire images. In the case of both fixed and variable focal length imaging systems, this inventive principle helps compensate for decreases in the power density of the incident planar laser illumination beam due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases in length for increasing object distances away from the imaging subsystem.

By virtue of the novel principles of the present invention, it is now possible to use both VLDs and high-speed electronic (e.g. CCD or CMOS) image detectors in conveyor, hand-held, presentation, and hold-under type imaging applications alike, enjoying the advantages and benefits that each such technology has to offer, while avoiding the shortcomings and drawbacks hitherto associated therewith.

These and other objects of the present invention will become apparent hereinafter and in the Claims to Invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, the following Detailed Description of the Illustrative Embodiment should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a schematic representation of a first generalized embodiment of the planar laser illumination and (electronic) imaging (PLIIM) system of the present invention, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted on opposite sides of a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module (i.e. camera subsystem) having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a fixed focal distance and fixed field of view, such that the planar illumination array produces a stationary (i.e. non-scanned) plane of laser beam illumination which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field of view of the image formation and detection module during object illumination and image detection operations carried out by the PLIIM-based system on a moving bar code symbol or other graphical structure;

FIG. 1B1 is a schematic representation of the first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 1A, wherein the field of view of the image formation and detection (IFD) module is folded in the downwardly imaging direction by the field of view folding mirror so that both the folded field of view and resulting stationary planar laser illumination beams produced by the planar illumination arrays are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and image detection operations;

FIG. 1B2 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 1A, wherein the linear image formation and detection module is shown comprising a linear array of photo-electronic detectors realized using CCD technology, each planar laser illumination array is shown comprising an array of planar laser illumination modules;

FIG. 1B3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) and magnified field of view (FOV) projected onto an object during conveyor-type illumination and imaging applications shown in FIG. 1B1, illustrating that the height dimension of the PLIB is substantially greater than the height dimension of the magnified field of view (FOV) of each image detection element in the linear CCD image detection array so as to decrease the range of tolerance that must be maintained between the PLIB and the FOV;

FIG. 1B4 is a schematic representation of an illustrative embodiment of a planar laser illumination array (PLIA), wherein each PLIM mounted therealong can be adjustably tilted about the optical axis of the VLD, a few degrees measured from the horizontal plane;

FIG. 1B5 is a schematic representation of a PLIM mounted along the PLIA shown in FIG. 1B4, illustrating that each VLD block can be adjustably pitched forward for alignment with other VLD beams produced from the PLIA;

FIG. 1C is a schematic representation of a first illustrative embodiment of a single-VLD planar laser illumination module (PLIM) used to construct each planar laser illumination array shown in FIG. 1B, wherein the planar laser illumination beam emanates substantially within a single plane along the direction of beam propagation towards an object to be optically illuminated;

FIG. 1D is a schematic diagram of the planar laser illumination module of FIG. 1C, shown comprising a visible laser diode (VLD), a light collimating focusing lens, and a cylindrical-type lens element configured together to produce a beam of planar laser illumination;

FIG. 1E1 is a plan view of the VLD, collimating lens and cylindrical lens assembly employed in the planar laser illumination module of FIG. 1C, showing that the focused laser beam from the collimating lens is directed on the input side of the cylindrical lens, and the output beam produced therefrom is a planar laser illumination beam expanded (i.e. spread out) along the plane of propagation;

FIG. 1E2 is an elevated side view of the VLD, collimating focusing lens and cylindrical lens assembly employed in the planar laser illumination module of FIG. 1C, showing that the laser beam is transmitted through the cylindrical lens without expansion in the direction normal to the plane of propagation, but is focused by the collimating focusing lens at a point residing within a plane located at the farthest object distance supported by the PLIIM system;

FIG. 1F is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 1A, comprising a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (driven by a set of digitally-programmable VLD driver circuits that can drive the VLDs in a high-frequency pulsed-mode of operation), a linear-type image formation and detection (IFD) module or camera subsystem, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 1G1 is a schematic representation of an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection (IFD) module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, and a field of view (FOV) folding mirror for folding the fixed field of view of the linear image formation and detection module in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of laser illumination beams produced by the planar laser illumination arrays;

FIG. 1G2 is a plan view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along line 1G2-1G2 therein, showing the spatial extent of the fixed field of view of the linear image formation and detection module in the illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1G3 is an elevated end view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along line 1G3-1G3 therein, showing the fixed field of view of the linear image formation and detection module being folded in the downwardly imaging direction by the field of view folding mirror, the planar laser illumination beam produced by each planar laser illumination module being directed in the imaging direction such that both the folded field of view and planar laser illumination beams are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and image detection operations;

FIG. 1G4 is an elevated side view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along line 1G4-1G4 therein, showing the field of view of the image formation and detection module being folded in the downwardly imaging direction by the field of view folding mirror, and the planar laser illumination beam produced by each planar laser illumination module being directed along the imaging direction such that both the folded field of view and stationary planar laser illumination beams are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and image detection operations;

FIG. 1G5 is a perspective view of one planar laser illumination array (PLIA) employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, showing an array of visible laser diodes (VLDs), each mounted within a VLD mounting block, wherein a focusing lens is mounted and on the end of which there is a v-shaped notch or recess, within which a cylindrical lens element is mounted, and wherein each such VLD mounting block is mounted on an L-bracket for mounting within the housing of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 1G6 is an elevated end view of one planar laser illumination array (PLIA) employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G, taken along line 1G6-1G6 thereof;

FIG. 1G7 is an elevated side view of one planar laser illumination array (PLIA) employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along line 1G7-1G7 therein, showing a visible laser diode (VLD) and a focusing lens mounted within a VLD mounting block, and a cylindrical lens element mounted at the end of the VLD mounting block, so that the central axis of the cylindrical lens element is substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the focusing lens;

FIG. 1G8 is an elevated side view of one of the VLD mounting blocks employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along a viewing direction which is orthogonal to the central axis of the cylindrical lens element mounted to the end portion of the VLD mounting block;

FIG. 1G9 is an elevated plan view of one of VLD mounting blocks employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along a viewing direction which is parallel to the central axis of the cylindrical lens element mounted to the VLD mounting block;

FIG. 1G10A is an elevated plan view of one of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along a viewing direction which is parallel to the central axis of the cylindrical lens element mounted in the VLD mounting block thereof, showing that the cylindrical lens element expands (i.e. spreads out) the laser beam along the direction of beam propagation so that a substantially planar laser illumination beam is produced, which is characterized by a plane of propagation that is coplanar with the direction of beam propagation;

FIG. 1G10B is an elevated plan view of one of the PLIMs employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken along a viewing direction which is perpendicular to the central axis of the cylindrical lens element mounted within the axial bore of the VLD mounting block thereof, showing that the focusing lens planar focuses the laser beam to its minimum beam width at a point which is the farthest distance at which the system is designed to capture images, while the cylindrical lens element does not expand or spread out the laser beam in the direction normal to the plane of propagation of the planar laser illumination beam;

FIG. 1G11A is a perspective view of a second illustrative embodiment of the PLIM of the present invention, wherein a first illustrative embodiment of a Powell-type linear diverging lens is used to produce the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) therefrom;

FIG. 1G11B is a perspective view of a third illustrative embodiment of the PLIM of the present invention, wherein a generalized embodiment of a Powell-type linear diverging lens is used to produce the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) therefrom;

FIG. 1G12A is a perspective view of a fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIM of the present invention, wherein a visible laser diode (VLD) and a pair of small cylindrical lenses are all mounted within a lens barrel permitting independent adjustment of these optical components along translational and rotational directions, thereby enabling the generation of a substantially planar laser beam (PLIB) therefrom, wherein the first cylindrical lens is a PCX-type lens having a piano (i.e. flat) surface and one outwardly cylindrical surface with a positive focal length and its base and the edges cut according to a circular profile for focusing the laser beam, and the second cylindrical lens is a PCV-type lens having a piano (i.e. flat) surface and one inward cylindrical surface having a negative focal length and its base and edges cut according to a circular profile, for use in spreading (i.e. diverging or planarizing) the laser beam;

FIG. 1G12B is a cross-sectional view of the PLIM shown in FIG. 1G17A illustrating that the PCX lens is capable of undergoing translation in the x direction for focusing;

FIG. 1G12C is a cross-sectional view of the PLIM shown in FIG. 1G17A illustrating that the PCX lens is capable of undergoing rotation about the x axis to ensure that it only effects the beam along one axis;

FIG. 1G12D is a cross-sectional view of the PLIM shown in FIG. 1G17A illustrating that the PCV lens is capable of undergoing rotation about the x axis to ensure that it only effects the beam along one axis;

FIG. 1G12E is a cross-sectional view of the PLIM shown in FIG. 1G17A illustrating that the VLD requires rotation about the y axis for aiming purposes;

FIG. 1G12F is a cross-sectional view of the PLIM shown in FIG. 1G17A illustrating that the VLD requires rotation about the x axis for desmiling purposes;

FIG. 1H1 is a geometrical optics model for the imaging subsystem employed in the linear-type image formation and detection module in the PLIIM system of the first generalized embodiment shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1H2 is a geometrical optics model for the imaging subsystem and linear image detection array employed in the linear-type image detection array of the image formation and detection module in the PLIIM system of the first generalized embodiment shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1H3 is a graph, based on thin lens analysis, showing that the image distance at which light is focused through a thin lens is a function of the object distance at which the light originates;

FIG. 1H4 is a schematic representation of an imaging subsystem having a variable focal distance lens assembly, wherein a group of lens can be controllably moved along the optical axis of the subsystem, and having the effect of changing the image distance to compensate for a change in object distance, allowing the image detector to remain in place;

FIG. 1H5 is schematic representation of a variable focal length (zoom) imaging subsystem which is capable of changing its focal length over a given range, so that a longer focal length produces a smaller field of view at a given object distance;

FIG. 1H6 is a schematic representation illustrating (i) the projection of a CCD image detection element (i.e. pixel) onto the object plane of the image formation and detection (IFD) module (i.e. camera subsystem) employed in the PLIIM systems of the present invention, and (ii) various optical parameters used to model the camera subsystem;

FIG. 1I1 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM system of FIG. 1A embodying a first generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) produced from the PLIIM system is spatial phase modulated along its wavefront according to a spatial phase modulation function (SPMF) prior to object illumination, so that the object (e.g. package) is illuminated with a spatially coherent-reduced planar laser beam and, as a result, numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns are produced and detected over the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby allowing the speckle-noise patterns to be temporally and spatially averaged over the photo-integration time over the image detection elements and the RMS power of the observable speckle-noise pattern reduced at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I2A is a schematic representation of the PLIM system of FIG. 1I1, illustrating the first generalized speckle-noise pattern reduction method of the present invention applied to the planar laser illumination array (PLIA) employed therein, wherein numerous substantially different speckle-noise patterns are produced at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof using spatial phase modulation techniques to modulate the phase along the wavefront of the PLIB, and temporally and spatially averaged at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I2B is a high-level flow chart setting forth the primary steps involved in practicing the first generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based Systems, illustrated in FIGS. 1I1 and 1I2A;

FIG. 1I3 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM system of FIG. 1A embodying a second generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) produced from the PLIIM system is spatial phase modulated along its wavefront according to a temporal intensity modulation function (TIMF) prior to object illumination, so that the object (e.g. package) is illuminated with a temporally coherent-reduced planar laser beam and, as a result, numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns are produced and detected over the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby allowing the speckle-noise patterns to be temporally and spatially averaged over the photo-integration time over the image detection elements and the RMS power of the observable speckle-noise pattern reduced at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I3A is a perspective view of an optical assembly comprising a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) with a pair of refractive-type cylindrical lens arrays, and an electronically-controlled mechanism for micro-oscillating the cylindrical lens arrays using two pairs of ultrasonic transducers arranged in a push-pull configuration so that transmitted planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) is spatial phase modulated along its wavefront producing numerous (i.e. many) substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns at the image detection array of the IFD Subsystem during the photo-integration time period thereof, and enabling numerous time-varying speckle-noise patterns produced at the image detection array to be temporally and/or spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I3B is a high-level flow chart setting forth the primary steps involved in practicing the second generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based Systems, illustrated in FIGS. 1I3, 1I3A and 1I3B;

FIG. 1I4 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM system of FIG. 1A embodying a third generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein numerous substantially different speckle-noise patterns are produced at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof using temporal phase modulation techniques to modulate the temporal phase of the wavefront of the PLIB (i.e. by an amount exceeding the coherence time length of the VLD), and temporally and spatially averaged at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I4A is a perspective view of an optical assembly comprising a PLIA with refractive-type cylindrical lens array, and an electro-acoustically controlled PLIB micro-oscillation mechanism realized by an acousto-optical (i.e. Bragg Cell) beam deflection device, through which the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) from each PLIM is transmitted and spatial phase modulated along its wavefront, in response to acoustical signals propagating through the electro-acoustical device, causing each PLIB to be micro-oscillated (i.e. repeatedly deflected) and producing numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns at the image detection array of the IFD Subsystem during the photo-integration time period thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I4B is a high-level flow chart setting forth the primary steps involved in practicing the third generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based Systems, illustrated in FIGS. 1I4 and 1I4A;

FIG. 1I5A is a perspective view of an optical assembly comprising a PLIA with a cylindrical lens array, and an electrically-passive PLIB modulation mechanism realized by a high-speed laser beam temporal phase modulation structure (e.g. optically reflective wavefront modulating cavity such as an etalon) arranged in front of each VLD within the PLIA, wherein the transmitted PLIB is temporal phase modulated according to a temporal phase modulation function (TPMF), modulating the temporal phase of the wavefront of the transmitted PLIB (i.e. by an amount exceeding the coherence time length of the VLD) and producing numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns at image detection array of the IFD Subsystem during the photo-integration time period thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I5B is a schematic representation, taken along the cross-section of the optical assembly shown in FIG. 1I5A, showing the optical path which each temporally-phased PLIB component within the PLIB travels on its way towards the target object to be illuminated;

FIG. 1I5C is a schematic representation of an optical assembly for reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based systems, shown comprising a PLIA, a backlit transmissive-type phase-only LCD (PO-LCD) phase modulation panel, and a cylindrical lens array positioned closely thereto arranged as shown so that the wavefront of each planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) is temporal phase modulated as it is transmitted through the PO-LCD phase modulation panel, thereby producing numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns at the image detection array of the IFD Subsystem during the photo-integration time period of the image detection array thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I5D is a schematic representation of an optical assembly for reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based systems, shown comprising a PLIA, a high-density fiber optical array panel, and a cylindrical lens array positioned closely thereto arranged as shown so that the wavefront of each planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) is temporal phase modulated as it is transmitted through the fiber optical array panel, producing numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns at the image detection array of the IFD Subsystem during the photo-integration time period of the image detection array thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I5E is a plan view of the optical assembly shown in FIG. 1I5D, showing the optical path of the PLIB components through the fiber optical array panel during the temporal phase modulation of the wavefront of the PLIB;

FIG. 1I6 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM system of FIG. 1A embodying a fourth generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) produced from the PLIIM system is spatial phase modulated along its wavefront according to a temporal frequency modulation function (TFMF) prior to object illumination, so that the object (e.g. package) is illuminated with a temporally coherent-reduced planar laser beam and, as a result, numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns are produced and detected over the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby allowing the speckle-noise patterns to be temporally and spatially averaged over the photo-integration time over the image detection elements and the RMS power of the observable speckle-noise pattern reduced at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I6A is a perspective view of an optical assembly comprising a PLIA with a stationary refractive-type cylindrical lens array, and a PLIB micro-oscillation mechanism realized by a refractive-type phase-modulation disc that is rotated about its axis through the composite planar laser illumination beam so that the transmitted PLIB is spatial phase modulated along its wavefront as it is transmitted through the phase modulation disc, producing numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I7A is a perspective view of an optical assembly comprising a PLIA embodying a plurality of visible mode-locked laser diodes (MLLDs), arranged in front of a cylindrical lens array, wherein the transmitted PLIB is temporal intensity modulated according to a temporal-intensity modulation (e.g. windowing) function (TIMF), temporal intensity of numerous substantially different speckle-noise patterns are produced at the image detection array of the IFD subsystem during the photo-integration time period thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I7B is a schematic diagram of one of the visible MLLDs employed in the PLIM of FIG. 1I7A, show comprising a multimode laser diode cavity referred to as the active layer (e.g. InGaAsP) having a wide emission-bandwidth over the visible band, a collimating lenslet having a very short focal length, an active mode-locker under switched control (e.g. a temporal-intensity modulator), a passive-mode locker (i.e. saturable absorber) for controlling the pulse-width of the output laser beam, and a mirror which is 99% reflective and 1% transmissive at the operative wavelength of the visible MLLD;

FIG. 1I7C is a perspective view of an optical assembly comprising a PLIA embodying a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs), which are driven by a digitally-controlled programmable drive-current source and arranged in front of a cylindrical lens array, wherein the transmitted PLIB from the PLIA is temporal intensity modulated according to a temporal-intensity modulation function (TIMF) controlled by the programmable drive-current source, modulating the temporal intensity of the wavefront of the transmitted PLIB and producing numerous substantially different speckle-noise patterns at the image detection array of the IFD subsystem during the photo-integration time period thereof, which are temporally and spatially averaged during the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I8 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1A embodying a fifth generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) transmitted towards the target object to be illuminated is spatial intensity modulated by a spatial intensity modulation function (SIMF), so that the object (e.g. package) is illuminated with spatially coherent-reduced laser beam and, as a result, numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns are produced and detected over the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby allowing the numerous speckle-noise patterns to be temporally averaged over the photo-integration time period and spatially averaged over the image detection element and the RMS power of the observable speckle-noise pattern reduced;

FIG. 1I8A is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1I8, illustrating the fifth generalized speckle-noise pattern reduction method of the present invention applied at the IFD Subsystem employed therein, wherein numerous substantially different speckle-noise patterns are produced at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof using spatial intensity modulation techniques to modulate the spatial intensity along the wavefront of the PLIB, and temporally and spatially averaged at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I8B is a high-level flow chart setting forth the primary steps involved in practicing the fifth generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based systems, illustrated in FIGS. 1I8 and 1I8A;

FIG. 1I9 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1A embodying a sixth generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) reflected/scattered from the illuminated object and received at the IFD Subsystem is spatial intensity modulated according to a spatial intensity modulation function (SIMF), so that the object (e.g. package) is illuminated with a spatially coherent-reduced laser beam and, as a result, numerous substantially different time-varying (random) speckle-noise patterns are produced and detected over the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby allowing the speckle-noise patterns to be temporally averaged over the photo-integration time period and spatially averaged over the image detection element and the observable speckle-noise pattern reduced;

FIG. 1I9A is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1I9, illustrating the sixth generalized speckle-noise pattern reduction method of the present invention applied at the IFD Subsystem employed therein, wherein numerous substantially different speckle-noise patterns are produced at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof by spatial intensity modulating the wavefront of the received/scattered PLIB, and the time-varying speckle-noise patterns are temporally and spatially averaged at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof, to thereby reduce the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 119B is a high-level flow chart setting forth the primary steps involved in practicing the sixth generalized method of reducing observable speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based systems, illustrated in FIGS. 1I9 and 1I9A;

FIG. 1I9A is a schematic representation of a first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 1I9, wherein an electro-optical mechanism is used to generate a rotating maltese-cross aperture (or other spatial intensity modulation plate) disposed before the pupil of the IFD Subsystem, so that the wavefront of the return PLIB is spatial-intensity modulated at the IFD subsystem in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 1I9B is a schematic representation of a second illustrative embodiment of the system shown in FIG. 1I9, wherein an electro-mechanical mechanism is used to generate a rotating maltese-cross aperture (or other spatial intensity modulation plate) disposed before the pupil of the IFD Subsystem, so that the wavefront of the return PLIB is spatial intensity modulated at the IFD subsystem in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 1I10 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1A illustrating the seventh generalized method of reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns, wherein the wavefront of the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) reflected/scattered from the illuminated object and received at the IFD Subsystem is temporal intensity modulated according to a temporal-intensity modulation function (TIMF), thereby producing numerous substantially different time-varying (random) speckle-noise patterns which are detected over the photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby reducing the RMS power of observable speckle-noise patterns;

FIG. 1I10A is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1I10, illustrating the seventh generalized speckle-noise pattern reduction method of the present invention applied at the IFD Subsystem employed therein, wherein numerous substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns are produced at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof by modulating the temporal intensity of the wavefront of the received/scattered PLIB, and the time-varying speckle-noise patterns are temporally and spatially averaged at the image detection array during the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed at the image detection array;

FIG. 1I10B is a high-level flow chart setting forth the primary steps involved in practicing the seventh generalized method of reducing observable speckle-noise patterns in PLIM-based systems, illustrated in FIGS. 1I10 and 1I10A;

FIG. 1I10C is a schematic representation of an illustrative embodiment of the PLIM-based system shown in FIG. 1I10, wherein is used to carry out wherein a high-speed electro-optical temporal intensity modulation panel, mounted before the imaging optics of the IFD subsystem, is used to temporal intensity modulate the wavefront of the return PLIB at the IFD subsystem in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 1I11 is a flow chart of the eight generalized speckle-noise pattern reduction method of the present invention applied at the IFD Subsystem of a (linear or area type) PLIIM-based imager of the present invention, wherein a series of consecutively captured digital images of an object, containing speckle-pattern noise, are captured and buffered over a series of consecutively different photo-integration time periods in the hand-held PLIIM-based imager, and thereafter spatially corresponding pixel data subsets defined over a small window in the captured digital images are additively combined and averaged so as to produce spatially corresponding pixels data subsets in a reconstructed image of the object, containing speckle-pattern noise having a substantially reduced level of RMS power;

FIG. 1I12 is a flow chart of the ninth generalized speckle-noise pattern reduction method of the present invention applied at the IFD Subsystem of a linear type PLIIM-based imager of the present invention, wherein linear image detection arrays having vertically-elongated image detection elements are used in order to enable spatial averaging of spatially and temporally varying speckle-noise patterns produced during each photo-integration time period of the image detection array, thereby reducing speckle-pattern noise power observed during imaging operations;

FIG. 1J1 shows a data plot of pixel power density E_(pix) versus. object distance (r) calculated using the arbitrary but reasonable values E₀=1 W/m², f=80 mm and F=4.5, demonstrating that, in a counter-intuitive manner, the power density at the pixel (and therefore the power incident on the pixel, as its area remains constant) actually increases as the object distance increases;

FIG. 1J2 is a data plot of laser beam power density versus position along the planar laser beam width showing that the total output power in the planar laser illumination beam of the present invention is distributed along the width of the beam in a roughly Gaussian distribution;

FIG. 1J3 shows a plot of beam width length L versus object distance r calculated using a beam fan/spread angle θ=50°, demonstrating that the planar laser illumination beam width increases as a function of increasing object distance;

FIG. 1J4 is a typical data plot of planar laser beam height h versus image distance r for a planar laser illumination beam of the present invention focused at the farthest working distance in accordance with the principles of the present invention, demonstrating that the height dimension of the planar laser beam decreases as a function of increasing object distance;

FIG. 1K is a data plot of planar laser beam power density E₀ at the center of its beam width, plotted as a function of object distance, demonstrating that use of the laser beam focusing technique of the present invention, wherein the height of the planar laser illumination beam is decreased as the object distance increases, compensates for the increase in beam width in the planar laser illumination beam, which occurs for an increase in object distance, thereby yielding a laser beam power density on the target object which increases as a function of increasing object distance over a substantial portion of the object distance range of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 1L is a data plot of pixel power density E₀ vs. object distance, obtained when using a planar laser illumination beam whose beam height decreases with increasing object distance, and also a data plot of the “reference” pixel power density plot E_(pix) vs. object distance obtained when using a planar laser illumination beam whose beam height is substantially constant (e.g. 1 mm) over the entire portion of the object distance range of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 1M1 is a schematic representation of the composite power density characteristics associated with the planar laser illumination array in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken at the “near field region” of the system, and resulting from the additive power density contributions of the individual visible laser diodes in the planar laser illumination array;

FIG. 1M2 is a schematic representation of the composite power density characteristics associated with the planar laser illumination array in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, taken at the “far field region” of the system, and resulting from the additive power density contributions of the individual visible laser diodes in the planar laser illumination array;

FIG. 1N1 is a schematic representation of second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 1A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection module, and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module such that the field of view thereof is oriented in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of the stationary planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) produced by the planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) without using any laser beam or field of view folding mirrors;

FIG. 1N2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 1Q1, comprising a linear image formation and detection module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 1O is a block schematic diagram of a PLIIM-based system comprising a linear image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view folding mirror, a pair of planar illumination arrays, a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 1P1 is a schematic representation of fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 1A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection module having a field of view (FOV), a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams, and a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors for folding the optical paths of the first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams so that planes of first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams are in a direction that is coplanar with the field of view of the image formation and detection module;

FIG. 1P2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 1S1, comprising a linear-type image formation and detection (IFD) module, a stationary field of view folding mirror, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, a pair of stationary planar laser beam folding mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 1Q is a schematic representation of an under-the-conveyor-belt package identification system embodying the PLIIM-based subsystem of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1R1 is a schematic representation of second generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted on opposite sides of a linear type image formation and detection (IFD) module having a field of view, such that the planar laser illumination arrays produce a plane of laser beam illumination (i.e. light) which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field of view of the image formation and detection module, and that the planar laser illumination beam and the field of view of the image formation and detection module move synchronously together while maintaining their coplanar relationship with each other as the planar laser illumination beam and FOV are automatically scanned over a 3-D region of space during object illumination and image detection operations;

FIG. 1R2 is a schematic representation of first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 1R1, shown comprising an image formation and detection module having a field of view (FOV), a field of view (FOV) folding/sweeping mirror for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams, and a pair of planar laser beam folding/sweeping mirrors, jointly or synchronously movable with the FOV folding/sweeping mirror, and arranged so as to fold and sweep the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams so that the folded field of view of the image formation and detection module is synchronously moved with the planar laser illumination beams in a direction that is coplanar therewith as the planar laser illumination beams are scanned over a 3-D region of space under the control of the camera control computer;

FIG. 1R3 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 1V1, comprising a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, a pair of planar laser beam folding/sweeping mirrors, a linear-type image formation and detection module, a field of view folding/sweeping mirror, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 2A is a schematic representation of a third generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted on opposite sides of a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view (FOV) so that the planar laser illumination arrays produce a plane of laser beam illumination which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field view of the image formation and detection module during object illumination and image detection operations carried out on bar code symbol structures and other graphical indicia which may embody information within its structure;

FIG. 2B1 is a schematic representation of a first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2A, comprising an image formation and detection module having a field of view (FOV), and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the field of view of the image formation and detection module;

FIG. 2B2 is a schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 2B1, wherein the linear image formation and detection module is shown comprising a linear array of photo-electronic detectors realized using CCD technology, and each planar laser illumination array is shown comprising an array of planar laser illumination modules;

FIG. 2C1 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2B1, comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, a linear-type image formation and detection module, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 2C2 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2B1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 2D1 is a schematic representation of the second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 2A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module, and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module such that the folded field of view is oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the stationary planes of laser illumination produced by the planar laser illumination arrays;

FIG. 2D2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2D1, comprising a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs), a linear-type image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view of folding mirror, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 2D3 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection module (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2D1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 2E1 is a schematic representation of the third illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 1A, shown comprising an image formation and detection module having a field of view (FOV), a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams, a pair of stationary planar laser beam folding mirrors for folding the stationary (i.e. non-swept) planes of the planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar laser illumination arrays, in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the stationary plane of the field of view of the image formation and detection module during system operation;

FIG. 2E2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2B1, comprising a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 2E3 is a schematic representation of the linear image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2B1, wherein an imaging subsystem having fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 2F1 is a schematic representation of the fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 2A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection module having a field of view (FOV), a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams, and a pair of stationary planar laser beam folding mirrors arranged so as to fold the optical paths of the first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams so that these planar laser illumination beams are oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the folded field of view of the linear image formation and detection module;

FIG. 2F2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2F1, comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror, a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 2F3 is a schematic representation of the linear-type image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 2F1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 2G is a schematic representation of an over-the-conveyor belt package identification system embodying the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2H is a schematic representation of a hand-supportable bar code symbol reading system embodying the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2I1 is a schematic representation of the fourth generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted on opposite sides of a linear image formation and detection (IFD) module having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and fixed field of view (FOV), so that the planar illumination arrays produces a plane of laser beam illumination which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field view of the image formation and detection module and synchronously moved therewith while the planar laser illumination beams are automatically scanned over a 3-D region of space during object illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 2I2 is a schematic representation of the first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 2I1, shown comprising an image formation and detection module (i.e. camera) having a field of view (FOV), a FOV folding/sweeping mirror, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams, and a pair of planar laser beam folding/sweeping mirrors, jointly movable with the FOV folding/sweeping mirror, and arranged so that the field of view of the image formation and detection module is coplanar with the folded planes of first and second planar laser illumination beams, and the coplanar FOV and planar laser illumination beams are synchronously moved together while the planar laser illumination beams and FOV are scanned over a 3-D region of space containing a stationary or moving bar code symbol or other graphical structure (e.g. text) embodying information;

FIG. 2I3 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIGS. 2I1 and 2I2, comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, a field of view (FOV) folding/sweeping mirror, a pair of planar laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors jointly movable therewith, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 2I4 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIGS. 2I1 and 2I2, wherein an imaging subsystem having a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 2I5 is a schematic representation of a hand-supportable bar code symbol reader embodying the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2I1;

FIG. 2I6 is a schematic representation of a presentation-type bar code symbol reader embodying the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2I1;

FIG. 3A is a schematic representation of a fifth generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted on opposite sides of a linear image formation and detection (IFD) module having a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view, so that the planar laser illumination arrays produce a stationary plane of laser beam illumination (i.e. light) which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field view of the image formation and detection module during object illumination and image detection operations carried out on bar code symbols and other graphical indicia by the PLIIM-based system of the present invention;

FIG. 3B1 is a schematic representation of the first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 3A, shown comprising an image formation and detection module, and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module such that the stationary field of view thereof is oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the stationary plane of laser illumination produced by the planar laser illumination arrays, without using any laser beam or field of view folding mirrors.

FIG. 3B2 is a schematic representation of the first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3B1, wherein the linear image formation and detection module is shown comprising a linear array of photo-electronic detectors realized using CCD technology, and each planar laser illumination array is shown comprising an array of planar laser illumination modules;

FIG. 3C1 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based shown in FIG. 3B1, comprising a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 3C2 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3B1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a 3-D variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to zoom and focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 3D1 is a schematic representation of the second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 3A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, and a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module such that the stationary field of view thereof is oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the stationary plane of laser illumination produced by the planar laser illumination arrays, without using any planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors;

FIG. 3D2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3D1, comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 3D3 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection module (IFDM) employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3D1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to zoom and focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 3D4 is a schematic representation of an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3D1, shown comprising a compact housing, linear-type image formation and detection (i.e. camera) module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, and a field of view (FOV) folding mirror for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of composite laser illumination beam produced by the planar laser illumination arrays;

FIG. 3D5 is a plan view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3D4, taken along line 3D5-3D5 therein, showing the spatial extent of the field of view of the image formation and detection module in the illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3D6 is an elevated end view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3D4, taken along line 3D6-3D6 therein, showing the field of view of the linear image formation and detection module being folded in the downwardly imaging direction by the field of view folding mirror, and the planar laser illumination beam produced by each planar laser illumination module being directed in the imaging direction such that both the folded field of view and planar laser illumination beams are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 3E1 is a schematic representation of the third illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 3A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection module having a field of view (FOV), a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams, a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors arranged relative to the planar laser illumination arrays so as to fold the stationary planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays in an imaging direction that is coplanar with stationary field of view of the image formation and detection module during illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 3E2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3E1, comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 3E3 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3E1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and is responsive to zoom and focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system during illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 3F1 is a schematic representation of the fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 3A, shown comprising a linear image formation and detection (i.e. camera) module having a field of view (FOV), a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second stationary planar laser illumination beams, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module, and a pair of stationary planar laser beam folding mirrors arranged so as to fold the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams such that stationary planes of first and second planar laser illumination beams are in an imaging direction which is coplanar with the field of view of the image formation and detection module during illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 3F2 is a block schematic diagram of the PLIIM system shown in FIG. 3F1, comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, a linear image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror, a pair of stationary planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 3F3 is a schematic representation of the linear type image formation and detection module (IFDM) employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 3F1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to zoom and focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM system during illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 3G is a schematic representation of over-the-conveyor and side-of-conveyor belt package identification systems embodying the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a schematic representation of a fifth generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, wherein a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted on opposite sides of an area type image formation and detection (IFD) module having a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and variable field of view projected through a 3-D scanning region, so that the planar laser illumination arrays produce a plane of laser beam illumination which is disposed substantially coplanar with sections of the field view of the image formation and detection module as the planar laser illumination beams are automatically scanned through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and image detection operations carried out on a bar code symbol or other graphical indicia by the PLIIM-based system;

FIG. 4B1 is a schematic representation of the first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 4A, shown comprising an area-type image formation and detection module, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams, and a pair of planar laser beam folding/sweeping mirrors for folding and sweeping the planar laser illumination beams so that the optical paths of these planar laser illumination beams are oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with a section of the field of view of the image formation and detection module as the planar laser illumination beams are swept through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 4B2 is a schematic representation of a first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 4B1, wherein the area image formation and detection module is shown comprising an area array of photo-electronic detectors realized using CCD technology, and each planar laser illumination array is shown comprising an array of planar laser illumination modules;

FIG. 4B3 is a schematic representation of the first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention shown in FIG. 4B1, shown comprising a pair of planar illumination arrays, an area-type image formation and detection module, a pair of planar laser beam folding/sweeping mirrors, an image frame grabber, an image data buffer, an image processing computer, and a camera control computer;

FIG. 4B4 is a schematic representation of the area-type (2-D) image formation and detection (IFD) module employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 4B1, wherein an imaging subsystem having a variable length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and variable field of view is arranged on an optical bench, mounted within a compact module housing, and responsive to zoom and focus control signals generated by the camera control computer of the PLIIM-based system during illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 5A is a schematic representation of an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 4A, shown comprising an area-type image formation and detection module, a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror for folding and projecting the FOV through a 3-D scanning region, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, and pair of planar laser beam folding/sweeping mirrors for folding and sweeping the planar laser illumination beams so that the optical paths of these planar laser illumination beams are oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with a section of the field of view of the image formation and detection module as the planar laser illumination beams are swept through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 5B is a plan view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 6D1, taken along line 5B-5B in FIG. 5A, showing the spatial extent of the field of view of the image formation and detection module in the illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5C is an elevated end view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 5A, taken along line 5C-5C therein, showing the FOV of the area-type image formation and detection module being folded by the stationary FOV folding mirror and projected downwardly through a 3-D scanning region, and the planar laser illumination beams produced from the planar laser illumination arrays being folded and swept so that the optical paths of these planar laser illumination beams are oriented in a direction that is coplanar with a section of the FOV of the image formation and detection module as the planar laser illumination beams are swept through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 5D is an elevated side view schematic representation of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 5A, taken along line 5D-5D therein, showing the FOV of the area-type image formation and detection module being folded and projected downwardly through the 3-D scanning region, while the planar laser illumination beams are swept through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and imaging operations;

FIG. 6A is a first perspective view of an alternative housing design for use with the unitary PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition subsystem of the present invention, wherein the housing has light transmission apertures provided in the housing design but has no housing panels disposed about the light transmission apertures through which PLIBs and the FOV of the PLIIM-based subsystem extend, thereby providing a region of space into which an optional device can be mounted for carrying out a speckle-pattern noise reduction solution in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a second perspective view of the housing design shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a third perspective view of the housing design shown in FIG. 6A, showing the different sets of optically-isolated light transmission apertures formed in the underside surface of the housing;

FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of the unitary PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition system of FIG. 6A, showing the use of a “Real-Time” Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module within the LDIP subsystem to automatically process raw data received by the LDIP subsystem and generate, as output, time-stamped data sets that are transmitted to a camera control computer which automatically processes the received time-stamped data sets and generates real-time camera control signals that drive the focus and zoom lens group translators within a high-speed auto-focus/auto-zoom digital camera subsystem so that the camera subsystem automatically captures digital images having (1) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (2) significantly reduced speckle-noise levels, and (3) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (dpi) independent of package height or velocity;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart describing the primary data processing operations that are carried out by the Real-Time Package Height Profile And Edge Detection Processing Module within the LDIP subsystem employed in the PLIIM-based system shown in FIG. 7, wherein each sampled row of raw range data collected by the LDIP subsystem is processed to produce a data set (i.e. containing data elements representative of the current time-stamp, the package height, the position of the left and right edges of the package edges, the coordinate subrange where height values exhibit maximum range intensity variation and the current package velocity) which is then transmitted to the camera control computer for processing and generation of real-time camera control signals that are transmitted to the auto-focus/auto-zoom digital camera subsystem;

FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of a portion of the unitary object identification and attribute acquisition system of the present invention showing in greater detail the interface between its PLIIM-based subsystem and LDIP subsystem, and the various information signals which are generated by the LDIP subsystem and provided to the camera control computer, and how the camera control computer generates digital camera control signals which are provided to the image formation and detection (IFD) subsystem (i.e. “camera”) so that the unitary system can carry out its diverse functions in an integrated manner, including (1) capturing digital images having (i) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (ii) significantly reduced speckle-noise pattern levels, and (iii) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (DPI) independent of package height or velocity and without the use of costly telecentric optics employed by prior art systems, (2) automatic cropping of captured images so that only regions of interest reflecting the package or package label are transmitted to the image processing computer (for 1-D or 2-D bar code symbol decoding or optical character recognition (OCR) image processing), and (3) automatic image-lifting operations for supporting other package management operations carried out by the end-user;

FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of the four-sided tunnel-type object identification and attribute acquisition (PID) system constructed by arranging about a high-speed package conveyor belt subsystem, one PLIIM-based PID unit and three modified PLIIM-based PID units (without the LDIP Subsystem), wherein the LDIP subsystem in the top PID unit is configured as the master unit to detect and dimension packages transported along the belt, while the bottom PID unit is configured as a slave unit to view packages through a small gap between conveyor belt sections and the side PID units are configured as slave units to view packages from side angles slightly downstream from the master unit, and wherein all of the PID units are operably connected to an Ethernet control hub (e.g. contained within one of the slave units) of a local area network (LAN) providing high-speed data packet communication among each of the units within the tunnel system;

FIG. 11 is a schematic system diagram of the tunnel-type system shown in FIG. 10, embedded within a first-type LAN having an Ethernet control hub (e.g. contained within one of the slave units);

FIG. 12 is a schematic system diagram of the tunnel-type system shown in FIG. 11, embedded within a second-type LAN having an Ethernet control hub and an Ethernet data switch (e.g. contained within one of the slave units), and a fiber-optic (FO) based network, to which a keying-type computer workstation is connected at a remote distance within a package counting facility;

FIGS. 13A and 13B, taken together, set forth a schematic representation of the camera-based object identification and attribute acquisition subsystem of FIG. 10, illustrating the system architecture of the slave units in relation to the master unit, and that (1) the package height, width, and length coordinates data and velocity data elements (computed by the LDIP subsystem within the master unit) are produced by the master unit and defined with respect to the global coordinate reference system, and (2) these package dimension data elements are transmitted to each slave unit on the data communication network, converted into the package height, width, and length coordinates, and used to generate real-time camera control signals which intelligently drive the camera subsystem within each slave unit, and (3) the package identification data elements generated by any one of the slave units are automatically transmitted to the master slave unit for time-stamping, queuing, and processing to ensure accurate package dimension and identification data element linking operations in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of the tunnel-type system of FIG. 10, illustrating that package dimension data (i.e. height, width, and length coordinates) is (i) centrally computed by the master unit and referenced to a global coordinate reference frame, (ii) transmitted over the data network to each slave unit within the system, and (iii) converted to the local coordinate reference frame of each slave unit for use by its camera control computer to drive its automatic zoom and focus imaging optics in an intelligent, real-time manner in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a schematic representation of one of the slave units in the tunnel system of FIG. 14, showing the angle measurement (i.e. protractor) devices of the present invention integrated into the housing and support structure of each slave unit, thereby enabling technicians to measure the pitch and yaw angle of the local coordinate system symbolically embedded within each slave unit;

FIGS. 15A and 15B, taken together, provide a high-level flow chart describing the primary steps involved in carrying out the novel method of controlling local vision-based camera subsystems deployed within a tunnel-based system, using real-time package dimension data centrally computed with respect to a global/central coordinate frame of reference, and distributed to local package identification units over a high-speed data communication network;

FIG. 16A is a schematic representation of a first illustrative embodiment of the bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system of the present invention, comprising a pair of PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition subsystems, wherein each PLIIM-based subsystem employs visible laser diodes (VLDs) having different color producing wavelengths to produce a multi-spectral planar laser illumination beam (PLIB), and a 1-D (linear-type) CCD image detection array within the compact system housing to capture images of objects (e.g. produce) that are processed in order to determine the shape/geometry, dimensions and color of such products in diverse retail shopping environments;

FIG. 16B is a schematic representation of the bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system of FIG. 16A, showing its PLIIM-based subsystems and 2-D scanning volume in greater detail;

FIGS. 16C and 16D, taken together, set forth a system block diagram illustrating the system architecture of the bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system of the first illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B;

FIG. 17A is a schematic representation of a second illustrative embodiment of the bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system of the present invention, comprising a pair of PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition subsystems, wherein each PLIIM-based subsystem employs visible laser diodes (VLDs) having different color producing wavelengths to produce a multi-spectral planar laser illumination beam (PLIB), and a 2-D (area-type) CCD image detection array within the compact system housing to capture images of objects (e.g. produce) that are processed in order to determine the shape/geometry, dimensions and color of such products in diverse retail shopping environments;

FIG. 17B is a schematic representation of the bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system of FIG. 17A, showing its PLIIM-based subsystems and 3-D scanning volume in greater detail; and

FIGS. 17C and 17D show system block diagrams illustrating the system architecture of the bioptical PLIIM-based product dimensioning, analysis and identification system of the second illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Referring to the figures in the accompanying Drawings, the preferred embodiments of the Planar Light Illumination and Imaging (PLIIM) System of the present invention will be described in great detail, wherein like elements will be indicated using like reference numerals.

Overview of the Planar Laser Illumination And Imaging (PLIIM) System of the Present Invention

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, an object (e.g. a bar coded package, textual materials, graphical indicia, etc.) is illuminated by a substantially planar light illumination beam (PLIB), preferably a planar laser illumination beam, having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics along a planar direction which passes through the field of view (FOV) of an image formation and detection module (e.g. realized within a CCD-type digital electronic camera, a 35 mm optical-film photographic camera, or on a semiconductor chip as shown in FIGS. 37 through 38B hereof), along substantially the entire working (i.e. object) distance of the camera, while images of the illuminated target object are formed and detected by the image formation and detection (i.e. camera) module.

This inventive principle of coplanar light illumination and image formation is embodied in two different classes of the PLIIM-based systems, namely: (1) in PLIIM systems, wherein the image formation and detection modules in these systems employ linear-type (1-D) image detection arrays; and (2) in PLIIM-based systems, wherein the image formation and detection modules in these systems employ area-type (2-D) image detection arrays. Such image detection arrays can be realized using CCD, CMOS or other technologies currently known in the art or to be developed in the distance future.

In each such system embodiments, it is preferred that each planar laser illumination beam is focused so that the minimum beam width thereof (e.g. 0.6 mm along its non-spreading direction) occurs at a point or plane which is the farthest or maximum working (i.e. object) distance at which the system is designed to acquire images of objects. Hereinafter, this aspect of the present invention shall be deemed the “Focus Beam At Farthest Object Distance (FBAFOD)” principle.

In the case where a fixed focal length imaging subsystem is employed in the PLIIM-based system, the FBAFOD principle helps compensate for decreases in the power density of the incident planar laser illumination beam due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases in length for increasing object distances away from the imaging subsystem.

In the case where a variable focal length (i.e. zoom) imaging subsystem is employed in the PLIIM-based system, the FBAFOD principle helps compensate for (i) decreases in the power density of the incident planar illumination beam due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases in length for increasing object distances away from the imaging subsystem, and (ii) any 1/r² type losses that would typically occur when using the planar laser planar illumination beam of the present invention.

By virtue of the present invention, scanned objects need only be illuminated along a single plane which is coplanar with a planar section of the field of view of the image formation and detection module (e.g. camera) during illumination and imaging operations carried out by the PLIIM-based system. This enables the use of low-power, light-weight, high-response, ultra-compact, high-efficiency solid-state illumination producing devices, such as visible laser diodes (VLDs), to selectively illuminate ultra-narrow sections of an object during image formation and detection operations, in contrast with high-power, low-response, heavy-weight, bulky, low-efficiency lighting equipment (e.g. sodium vapor lights) required by prior art illumination and image detection systems. In addition, the planar laser illumination techniques of the present invention enables high-speed modulation of the planar laser illumination beam, and use of simple (i.e. substantially-monochromatic wavelength) lens designs for substantially-monochromatic optical illumination and image formation and detection operations.

As will be illustrated in greater detail hereinafter, PLIIM-based systems embodying the “planar laser illumination” and “FBAFOD” principles of the present invention can be embodied within a wide variety of bar code symbol reading and scanning systems, as well as image-lift and optical character, text, and image recognition systems and devices well known in the art.

Various generalized embodiments of the PLIIM system of the present invention will now be described in great detail, and after each generalized embodiment, various applications thereof will be described.

First Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention

The first generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention 1 is illustrated in FIG. 1A. As shown therein, the PLIIM-based system 1 comprises: a housing 2 of compact construction; a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 including a 1-D electronic image detection array 3A, and a linear (1-D) imaging subsystem (LIS) 3B having a fixed focal length, a fixed focal distance, and a fixed field of view (FOV), for forming a 1-D image of an illuminated object 4 located within the fixed focal distance and FOV thereof and projected onto the 1-D image detection array 3A, so that the 1-D image detection array 3A can electronically detect the image formed thereon and automatically produce a digital image data set 5 representative of the detected image for subsequent image processing; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B, each mounted on opposite sides of the IFD module 3, such that each planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B produces a plane of laser beam illumination 7A, 7B which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field view of the image formation and detection module 3 during object illumination and image detection operations carried out by the PLIIM-based system.

An image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 having an imaging lens with a fixed focal length has a constant angular field of view (FOV), that is, the imaging subsystem can view more of the target object's surface as the target object is moved further away from the IFD module. A major disadvantage to this type of imaging lens is that the resolution of the image that is acquired, expressed in terms of pixels or dots per inch (dpi), varies as a function of the distance from the target object to the imaging lens. However, a fixed focal length imaging lens is easier and less expensive to design and produce than a zoom-type imaging lens which will be discussed in detail hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 3A through 3J4.

The distance from the imaging lens 3B to the image detecting (i.e. sensing) array 3A is referred to as the image distance. The distance from the target object 4 to the imaging lens 3B is called the object distance. The relationship between the object distance (where the object resides) and the image distance (at which the image detection array is mounted) is a function of the characteristics of the imaging lens, and assuming a thin lens, is determined by the thin (imaging) lens equation (1) defined below in greater detail. Depending on the image distance, light reflected from a target object at the object distance will be brought into sharp focus on the detection array plane. If the image distance remains constant and the target object is moved to a new object distance, the imaging lens might not be able to bring the light reflected off the target object (at this new distance) into sharp focus. An image formation and detection (IFD) module having an imaging lens with fixed focal distance cannot adjust its image distance to compensate for a change in the target's object distance; all the component lens elements in the imaging subsystem remain stationary. Therefore, the depth of field (DOF) of the imaging subsystems alone must be sufficient to accommodate all possible object distances and orientations. Such basic optical terms and concepts will be discussed in more formal detail hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 1J3 and 1J6.

In accordance with the present invention, the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, the linear image formation and detection (IFD) module 3, and any non-moving FOV and/or planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors employed in any particular system configuration described herein, are fixedly mounted on an optical bench 8 or chassis so as to prevent any relative motion (which might be caused by vibration or temperature changes) between: (i) the image forming optics (e.g. imaging lens) within the image formation and detection module 3 and any stationary FOV folding mirrors employed therewith; and (ii) each planar laser illumination array (i.e. VLD/cylindrical lens assembly) 6A, 6B and any planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors employed in the PLIIM system configuration. Preferably, the chassis assembly should provide for easy and secure alignment of all optical components employed in the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B as well as the image formation and detection module 3, as well as be easy to manufacture, service and repair. Also, this PLIIM-based system 1 employs the general “planar laser illumination” and “focus beam at farthest object distance (FBAFOD)” principles described above. Various illustrative embodiments of this generalized PLIIM-based system will be described below.

First Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 1A

The first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system 1A of FIG. 1A is shown in FIG. 1B1. As illustrated therein, the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3 is folded in the downwardly direction by a field of view (FOV) folding mirror 9 so that both the folded field of view 10 and resulting first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B produced by the planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B, respectively, are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and image detection operations. One primary advantage of this system design is that it enables a construction having an ultra-low height profile suitable, for example, in unitary object identification and attribute acquisition systems of the type disclosed in FIGS. 17-22, wherein the image-based bar code symbol reader needs to be installed within a compartment (or cavity) of a housing having relatively low height dimensions. Also, in this system design, there is a relatively high degree of freedom provided in where the image formation and detection module 3 can be mounted on the optical bench of the system, thus enabling the field of view (FOV) folding technique disclosed in FIG. 1L1 to practiced in a relatively easy manner.

The PLIIM system 1A illustrated in FIG. 1B1 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 1B2 and 1B3. As shown therein, the linear image formation and detection module 3 is shown comprising an imaging subsystem 3B, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using high-speed CCD technology (e.g. Dalsa IT-P4 Linear Image Sensors, from Dalsa, Inc. located on the WWW at http://www.dalsa.com). As shown, each planar laser illumination array 6A, 6B comprises a plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) 11A through 11F, closely arranged relative to each other, in a rectilinear fashion. For purposes of clarity, each PLIM is indicated by reference numeral. As shown in FIGS. 1K1 and 1K2, the relative spacing of each PLIM is such that the spatial intensity distribution of the individual planar laser beams superimpose and additively provide a substantially uniform composite spatial intensity distribution for the entire planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B.

In FIG. 1B3, greater focus is accorded to the planar light illumination beam (PLIB) and the magnified field of view (FOV) projected onto an object during conveyor-type illumination and imaging applications, as shown in FIG. 1B1. As shown in FIG. 1B3, the height dimension of the PLIB is substantially greater than the height dimension of the magnified field of view (FOV) of each image detection element in the linear CCD image detection array so as to decrease the range of tolerance that must be maintained between the PLIB and the FOV. This simplifies construction and maintenance of such PLIIM-based systems. In FIGS. 1B4 and 1B5, an exemplary mechanism is shown for adjustably mounting each VLD in the PLIA so that the desired beam profile characteristics can be achieved during calibration of each PLIA. As illustrated in FIG. 1B4, each VLD block in the illustrative embodiment is designed to tilt plus or minus 2 degrees relative to the horizontal reference plane of the PLIA. Such inventive features will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

FIG. 1C is a schematic representation of a single planar laser illumination module (PLIM) 11 used to construct each planar laser illumination array 6A, 6B shown in FIG. 1B2. As shown in FIG. 1C, the planar laser illumination beam emanates substantially within a single plane along the direction of beam propagation towards an object to be optically illuminated.

As shown in FIG. 1D, the planar laser illumination module of FIG. 1C comprises: a visible laser diode (VLD) 13 supported within an optical tube or block 14; a light collimating (i.e. focusing) lens 15 supported within the optical tube 14; and a cylindrical-type lens element 16 configured together to produce a beam of planar laser illumination 12. As shown in FIG. 1E, a focused laser beam 17 from the focusing lens 15 is directed on the input side of the cylindrical lens element 16, and a planar laser illumination beam 12 is produced as output therefrom.

As shown in FIG. 1F, the PLIIM-based system 1A of FIG. 1A comprises: a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of PLIMs 11A through 11F, and each PLIM being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 controlled by a micro-controller 720 programmable (by camera control computer 22) to generate diverse types of drive-current functions that satisfy the input power and output intensity requirements of each VLD in a real-time manner; linear-type image formation and detection module 3; field of view (FOV) folding mirror 9, arranged in spatial relation with the image formation and detection module 3; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer, including image-based bar code symbol decoding software such as, for example, SwiftDecode™ Bar Code Decode Software, from Omniplanar, Inc., of Princeton, N.J. (http://www.omniplanar.com); and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

Detailed Description of an Exemplary Realization of the PLIIM-Based System Shown in FIG. 1B1 through 1F

Referring now to FIGS. 1G1 through 1N2, an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system shown in FIGS. 1B1 through 1F will now be described in detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 1G1 and 1G2, the PLIIM system 25 of the illustrative embodiment is contained within a compact housing 26 having height, length and width dimensions 45″, 21.7″, and 19.7″ to enable easy mounting above a conveyor belt structure or the like. As shown in FIG. 1G1, the PLIIM-based system comprises an image formation and detection module 3, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A, 6B, and a stationary field of view (FOV) folding structure (e.g. mirror, refractive element, or diffractive element) 9, as shown in FIGS. 1B1 and 1B2. The function of the FOV folding mirror 9 is to fold the field of view (FOV) of the image formation and detection module 3 in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of laser illumination beams 7A and 7B produced by the planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B respectively. As shown, components 6A, 6B, 3 and 9 are fixedly mounted to an optical bench 8 supported within the compact housing 26 by way of metal mounting brackets that force the assembled optical components to vibrate together on the optical bench. In turn, the optical bench is shock mounted to the system housing techniques which absorb and dampen shock forces and vibration. The 1-D CCD imaging array 3A can be realized using a variety of commercially available high-speed line-scan camera systems such as, for example, the Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com. Notably, image frame grabber 17, image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20, image processing computer 21, and camera control computer 22 are realized on one or more printed circuit (PC) boards contained within a camera and system electronic module 27 also mounted on the optical bench, or elsewhere in the system housing 26

In general, the linear CCD image detection array (i.e. sensor) 3A has a single row of pixels, each of which measures from several μm to several tens of μm along each dimension. Square pixels are most common, and most convenient for bar code scanning applications, but different aspect ratios are available. In principle, a linear CCD detection array can see only a small slice of the target object it is imaging at any given time. For example, for a linear CCD detection array having 2000 pixels, each of which is 10 μm square, the detection array measures 2 cm long by 10 μm high. If the imaging lens 3B in front of the linear detection array 3A causes an optical magnification of 10×, then the 2 cm length of the detection array will be projected onto a 20 cm length of the target object. In the other dimension, the 10 μm height of the detection array becomes only 100 μm when projected onto the target. Since any label to be scanned will typically measure more than a hundred μm or so in each direction, capturing a single image with a linear image detection array will be inadequate. Therefore, in practice, the linear image detection array employed in each of the PLIIM-based systems shown in FIGS. 1A through 3J6 builds up a complete image of the target object by assembling a series of linear (1-D) images, each of which is taken of a different slice of the target object. Therefore, successful use of a linear image detection array in the PLIIM-based systems shown in FIGS. 1A through 3J6 requires relative movement between the target object and the PLIIM system. In general, either the target object is moving and the PLIIM system is stationary, or else the field of view of the PLIIM-based system is swept across a relatively stationary target object, as shown in FIGS. 3J1 through 3J4. This makes the linear image detection array a natural choice for conveyor scanning applications.

As shown in FIG. 1G1, the compact housing 26 has a relatively long light transmission window 28 of elongated dimensions for projecting the FOV of the image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 through the housing towards a predefined region of space outside thereof, within which objects can be illuminated and imaged by the system components on the optical bench 8. Also, the compact housing 26 has a pair of relatively short light transmission apertures 29A and 29B closely disposed on opposite ends of light transmission window 28, with minimal spacing therebetween, as shown in FIG. 1G1, so that the FOV emerging from the housing 26 can spatially overlap in a coplanar manner with the substantially planar laser illumination beams projected through transmission windows 29A and 29B, as close to transmission window 28 as desired by the system designer, as shown in FIGS. 1G3 and 1G4. Notably, in some applications, it is desired for such coplanar overlap between the FOV and planar laser illumination beams to occur very close to the light transmission windows 20, 29A and 29B (i.e. at short optical throw distances), but in other applications, for such coplanar overlap to occur at large optical throw distances.

In either event, each planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B is optically isolated from the FOV of the image formation and detection module 3. In the preferred embodiment, such optical isolation is achieved by providing a set of opaque wall structures 30A 30B about each planar laser illumination array, from the optical bench 8 to its light transmission window 29A or 29B, respectively. Such optical isolation structures prevent the image formation and detection module 3 from detecting any laser light transmitted directly from the planar laser illumination arrays 6A, 6B within the interior of the housing. Instead, the image formation and detection module 3 can only receive planar laser illumination that has been reflected off an illuminated object, and focused through the imaging subsystem of module 3.

As shown in FIG. 1G3, each planar laser illumination array 6A, 6B comprises a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, each individually and adjustably mounted to an L-shaped bracket 32 which, in turn, is adjustably mounted to the optical bench. As shown, a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 is mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) adjacent the illumination window formed within the optics bench 8 of the PLIIM-based system. The function performed by cylindrical lens array 299 is to optically combine the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and project the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated. By virtue of this inventive feature, each point on the object surface being imaged will be illuminated by different sources of laser illumination located at different points in space (i.e. by a source of spatially coherent-reduced laser illumination), thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-pattern noise observable at the linear image detection array of the PLIIM-based system.

As mentioned above, each planar laser illumination module 11 must be rotatably adjustable within its L-shaped bracket so as permit easy yet secure adjustment of the position of each PLIM 11 along a common alignment plane extending within L-bracket portion 32A thereby permitting precise positioning of each PLIM relative to the optical axis of the image formation and detection module 3. Once properly adjusted in terms of position on the L-bracket portion 32A, each PLIM can be securely locked by an allen or like screw threaded into the body of the L-bracket portion 32A. Also, L-bracket portion 32B, supporting a plurality of PLIMs 11A through 11B, is adjustably mounted to the optical bench 8 and releasably locked thereto so as to permit precise lateral and/or angular positioning of the L-bracket 32B relative to the optical axis and FOV of the image formation and detection module 3. The function of such adjustment mechanisms is to enable the intensity distributions of the individual PLIMs to be additively configured together along a substantially singular plane, typically having a width or thickness dimension on the orders of the width and thickness of the spread or dispersed laser beam within each PLIM. When properly adjusted, the composite planar laser illumination beam will exhibit substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire working range of the PLIIM-based system, as shown in FIGS. 1K1 and 1K2.

In FIG. 1G3, the exact position of the individual PLIMs 11A through 11F along its L-bracket 32A is indicated relative to the optical axis of the imaging lens 3B within the image formation and detection module 3. FIG. 1G3 also illustrates the geometrical limits of each substantially planar laser illumination beam produced by its corresponding PLIM, measured relative to the folded FOV 10 produced by the image formation and detection module 3. FIG. 1G4, illustrates how, during object illumination and image detection operations, the FOV of the image formation and detection module 3 is first folded by FOV folding mirror 19, and then arranged in a spatially overlapping relationship with the resulting/composite planar laser illumination beams in a coplanar manner in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

Notably, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1 has an image formation and detection module with an imaging subsystem having a fixed focal distance lens and a fixed focusing mechanism. Thus, such a system is best used in either hand-held scanning applications, and/or bottom scanning applications where bar code symbols and other structures can be expected to appear at a particular distance from the imaging subsystem.

In order that PLLIM-based subsystem 25 can be readily interfaced to and an integrated (e.g. embedded) within various types of computer-based systems, subsystem 25 also comprises an I/O subsystem 500 operably connected to camera control computer 22 and image processing computer 21, and a network controller 501 for enabling high-speed data communication with others computers in a local or wide area network using packet-based networking protocols (e.g. Ethernet, AppleTalk, etc.) well known in the art.

Detailed Description of the Planar Laser Illumination Modules (PLIMs) Employed in the Planar Laser Illumination Arrays (PLIAs) of the Illustrative Embodiments

Referring now to FIGS. 1G5 through 1I2A, the construction of each PLIM 14 and 15 used in the planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) will now be described in greater detail below.

As shown in FIG. 1G5, each planar laser illumination array (PLIA) 6A, 6B employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1G1, comprises an array of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) 11 mounted on the L-bracket structure 32, as described hereinabove. As shown in FIGS. 1G9 through 1G11, each PLIM of the illustrative embodiment disclosed herein comprises an assembly of subcomponents: a VLD mounting block 14 having a tubular geometry with a hollow central bore 14A formed entirely therethrough, and a v-shaped notch 14B formed on one end thereof; a visible laser diode (VLD) 13 (e.g. Mitsubishi ML1XX6 Series high-power 658 nm AlGalnP semiconductor laser) axially mounted at the end of the VLD mounting block, opposite the v-shaped notch 14B, so that the laser beam produced from the VLD 13 is aligned substantially along the central axis of the central bore 14A; a cylindrical lens 16, made of optical glass (e.g. borosilicate) or plastic having the optical characteristics specified, for example, in FIGS. 1G1 and 1G2, and fixedly mounted within the V-shaped notch 14B at the end of the VLD mounting block 14, using an optical cement or other lens fastening means, so that the central axis of the cylindrical lens 16 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the central bore 14A; and a focusing lens 15, made of central glass (e.g. borosilicate) or plastic having the optical characteristics shown, for example, in FIGS. 1H and 1H2, mounted within the central bore 14A of the VLD mounting block 14 so that the optical axis of the focusing lens 15 is substantially aligned with the central axis of the bore 14A, and located at a distance from the VLD which causes the laser beam output from the VLD 13 to be converging in the direction of the cylindrical lens 16. Notably, the function of the cylindrical lens 16 is to disperse (i.e. spread) the focused laser beam from focusing lens 15 along the plane in which the cylindrical lens 16 has curvature, as shown in FIG. 1I1 while the characteristics of the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) in the direction transverse to the propagation plane are determined by the focal length of the focusing lens 15, as illustrated in FIGS. 1I1 and 1I2.

As will be described in greater detail hereinafter, the focal length of the focusing lens 15 within each PLIM hereof is preferably selected so that the substantially planar laser illumination beam produced from the cylindrical lens 16 is focused at the farthest object distance in the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3, as shown in FIG. 1I2, in accordance with the “FBAFOD” principle of the present invention. As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1I1 and 1I2, wherein each PLIM has maximum object distance of about 61 inches (i.e. 155 centimeters), and the cross-sectional dimension of the planar laser illumination beam emerging from the cylindrical lens 16, in the non-spreading (height) direction, oriented normal to the propagation plane as defined above, is about 0.15 centimeters and ultimately focused down to about 0.06 centimeters at the maximal object distance (i.e. the farthest distance at which the system is designed to capture images). The behavior of the height dimension of the planar laser illumination beam is determined by the focal length of the focusing lens 15 embodied within the PLIM. Proper selection of the focal length of the focusing lens 15 in each PLIM and the distance between the VLD 13 and the focusing lens 15B indicated by reference No. (D), can be determined using the thin lens equation (1) below and the maximum object distance required by the PLIIM-based system, typically specified by the end-user. As will be explained in greater detail hereinbelow, this preferred method of VLD focusing helps compensate for decreases in the power density of the incident planar laser illumination beam (on target objects) due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases in length for increasing distances away from the imaging subsystem (i.e. object distances).

After specifying the optical components for each PLIM, and completing the assembly thereof as described above, each PLIM is adjustably mounted to the L-bracket position 32A by way of a set of mounting/adjustment screws turned through fine-threaded mounting holes formed thereon. In FIG. 1G7, the plurality of PLIMs 11A through 11F are shown adjustably mounted on the L-bracket at positions and angular orientations which ensure substantially uniform power density characteristics in both the near and far field portions of the planar laser illumination field produced by planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B cooperating together in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Notably, the relative positions of the PLIMs indicated in FIG. 1G6 were determined for a particular set of a commercial VLDs 13 used in the illustrative embodiment of the present invention, and, as the output beam characteristics will vary for each commercial VLD used in constructing each such PLIM, it is therefore understood that each such PLIM may need to be mounted at different relative positions on the L-bracket of the planar laser illumination array to obtain, from the resulting system, substantially uniform power density characteristics at both near and far regions of the planar laser illumination field produced thereby.

While a refractive-type cylindrical lens element 16 has been shown mounted at the end of each PLIM of the illustrative embodiments, it is understood each cylindrical lens element can be realized using refractive, reflective and/or diffractive technology and devices, including reflection and transmission type holographic optical elements (HOEs) well know in the art and described in detail in International Application No. WO 99/57579 published on Nov. 11, 1999, incorporated herein by reference. As used hereinafter and in the claims, the terms “cylindrical lens”, “cylindrical lens element” and “cylindrical optical element (COE)” shall be deemed to embrace all such alternative embodiments of this aspect of the present invention.

The only requirement of the optical element mounted at the end of each PLIM is that it has sufficient optical properties to convert a focusing laser beam transmitted therethrough, into a laser beam which expands or otherwise spreads out only along a single plane of propagation, while the laser beam is substantially unaltered (i.e. neither compressed or expanded) in the direction normal to the propagation plane.

Alternative Embodiments of the Planar Laser Illumination Module (PLIM) of the Present Invention

There are means for producing substantially planar laser beams (PLIBs) without the use of cylindrical optical elements. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,826,299 to Powell, incorporated herein by reference, discloses a linear diverging lens which has the appearance of a prism with a relatively sharp radius at the apex, capable of expanding a laser beam in only one direction. In FIG. 1G11A, a first type Powell lens 16A is shown embodied within a PLIM housing by simply replacing the cylindrical lens element 16 with a suitable Powell lens 16A taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,826,299. In this alternative embodiment, the Powell lens 16A is disposed after the focusing/collimating lens 15′ and VLD 13. In FIG. 1G11B, generic Powell lens 16B is shown embodied within a PLIM housing along with a collimating/focusing lens 15′ and VLD 13. The resulting PLIMs can be used in any PLIIM-based system of the present invention.

Alternatively, U.S. Pat. No. 4,589,738 to Ozaki discloses an optical arrangement which employs a convex reflector or a concave lens to spread a laser beam radially and then a cylindrical-concave reflector to converge the beam linearly to project a laser line. Like the Powell lens, the optical arrangement of U.S. Pat. No. 4,589,738 can be readily embodied within the PLIM of the present invention, for use in a PLIIM-based system employing the same.

In FIGS. 1G12A through 1G12D, there is shown an alternative embodiment of the PLIM of the present invention 729, wherein a visible laser diode (VLD) 13, and a pair of small cylindrical (i.e. PCX and PCV) lenses 730 and 731 are both mounted within a lens barrel 732 of compact construction. As shown, the lens barrel 732 permits independent adjustment of the lenses along both translational and rotational directions, thereby enabling the generation of a substantially planar laser beam therefrom. The PCX-type lens 730 has one piano surface 730A and a positive cylindrical surface 730B with its base and the edges cut in a circular profile. The function of the PCX-type lens 730 is laser beam focusing. The PCV-type lens 731 has one piano surface 731A and a negative cylindrical surface 731B with its base and edges cut in a circular profile. The function of the PCX-type lens 730 is laser beam spreading (i.e. diverging or planarizing).

As shown in FIGS. 1G12B and 1G12C, the PCX lens 730 is capable of undergoing translation in the x direction for focusing, and rotation about the x axis to ensure that it only effects the beam along one axis. Set-type screws or other lens fastening mechanisms can be used to secure the position of the PCX lens within its barrel 732 once its position has been properly adjusted during calibration procedure.

As shown in FIG. 1G2D, the PCV lens 731 is capable of undergoing rotation about the x axis to ensure that it only effects the beam along one axis. FIGS. 1G12E and 1G12F illustrate that the VLD 13 requires rotation about the y and x axes, for aiming and desmiling the planar laser illumination beam produced from the PLIM. Set-type screws or other lens fastening mechanisms can be used to secure the position and alignment of the PCV-type lens 731 within its barrel 732 once its position has been properly adjusted during calibration procedure. Likewise, set-type screws or other lens fastening mechanisms can be used to secure the position and alignment of the VLD 13 within its barrel 732 once its position has been properly adjusted during calibration procedure.

In the illustrative embodiments, one or more PLIMs 729 described above can be integrated together to produce a PLIA in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Such the PLIMs associated with the PLIA can be mounted along a common bracket, having PLIM-based multi-axial alignment and pitch mechanisms as illustrated in FIGS. 1B4 and 1B5 and described below.

Multi-Axis VLD Mounting Assembly Embodied Within Planar Laser Illumination (PLIA) of the Present Invention

In order to achieve the desired degree of uniformity in the power density along the PLIB generated from a PLIIM-based system of the present invention, it will be helpful to use the multi-axial VLD mounting assembly of FIGS. 1B4 and 1B in each PLIA employed therein. As shown in FIG. 1B4, each PLIM is mounted along its PLIA so that (1) the PLIM can be adjustably tilted about the optical axis of its VLD 13, by at least a few degrees measured from the horizontal reference plane as shown in FIG. 1B4, and so that (2) each VLD block can be adjustably pitched forward for alignment with other VLD beams, as illustrated in FIG. 1B5. The tilt-adjustment function can be realized by any mechanism that permits the VLD block to be releasably tilted relative to a base plate or like structure 740 which serves as a reference plane, from which the tilt parameter is measured. The pitch-adjustment function can be realized by any mechanism that permits the VLD block to be releasably pitched relative to a base plate or like structure which serves as a reference plane, from which the pitch parameter is measured. In a preferred embodiment, such flexibility in VLD block position and orientation can be achieved using a three axis gimbel-like suspension, or other pivoting mechanism, permitting rotational adjustment of the VLD block 14 about the X, Y and Z principle axes embodied therewithin. Set-type screws or other fastening mechanisms can be used to secure the position and alignment of the VLD block 14 relative to the PLIA base plate 740 once the position and orientation of the VLD block has been properly adjusted during a VLD calibration procedure.

Method of Adjusting the Focal Characteristics of Planar Laser Illumination Beams Generated by Planar Laser Illumination Arrays Used in Conjunction with Image Formation And Detection Modules Employing Fixed Focal Length Imaging Lenses

In the case of a fixed focal length camera lens, the planar laser illumination beam 7A, 7B is focused at the farthest possible object distance in the PLIIM-based system. In the case of fixed focal length imaging lens, this focus control technique of the present invention is not employed to compensate for decrease in the power density of the reflected laser beam as a function of 1/r² distance from the imaging subsystem, but rather to compensate for a decrease in power density of the planar laser illumination beam on the target object due to an increase in object distance away from the imaging subsystem.

It can be shown that laser return light that is reflected by the target object (and measured/detected at any arbitrary point in space) decreases in intensity as the inverse square of the object distance. In the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, the relevant decrease in intensity is not related to such “inverse square” law decreases, but rather to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases as the object distance increases. This “beam-width/object-distance” law decrease in light intensity will be described in greater detail below.

Using a thin lens analysis of the imaging subsystem, it can be shown that when any form of illumination having a uniform power density E₀ (i.e. power per unit area) is directed incident on a target object surface and the reflected laser illumination from the illuminated object is imaged through an imaging lens having a fixed focal length f and f-stop F, the power density E_(pix) (measured at the pixel of the image detection array and expressed as a function of the object distance r) is provided by the expression (I) set forth below:

$\begin{matrix} {E_{pix} = {\frac{E_{0}}{8F}\left( {1 - \frac{f}{r}} \right)^{2}}} & (1) \end{matrix}$

FIG. 1J1 shows a plot of pixel power density E_(pix) vs. object distance r calculated using the arbitrary but reasonable values E₀=1 W/m², f=80 mm and F=4.5. This plot demonstrates that, in a counter-intuitive manner, the power density at the pixel (and therefore the power incident on the pixel, as its area remains constant) actually increases as the object distance increases. Careful analysis explains this particular optical phenomenon by the fact that the field of view of each pixel on the image detection array increases slightly faster with increases in object distances than would be necessary to compensate for the 1/r² return light losses. A more analytical explanation is provided below.

The width of the planar laser illumination beam increases as object distance r increases. At increasing object distances, the constant output power from the VLD in each planar laser illumination module (PLIM) is spread out over a longer beam width, and therefore the power density at any point along the laser beam width decreases. To compensate for this phenomenon, the planar laser illumination beam of the present invention is focused at the farthest object distance so that the height of the planar laser illumination beam becomes smaller as the object distance increases; as the height of the planar laser illumination beam becomes narrower towards the farthest object distance, the laser beam power density increases at any point along the width of the planar laser illumination beam. The decrease in laser beam power density due to an increase in planar laser beam width and the increase in power density due to a decrease in planar laser beam height, roughly cancel each other out, resulting in a power density which either remains approximately constant or increases as a function of increasing object distance, as the application at hand may require.

Also, as shown in conveyor application of FIG. 1B3, the height dimension of the planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) is substantially greater than the height dimension of the magnified field of view (FOV) of each image detection element in the linear CCD image detection array. The reason for this condition between the PLIB and the FOV is to decrease the range of tolerance which must be maintained when the PLIB and the FOV are aligned in a coplanar relationship along the entire working distance of the PLIIM-based system.

When the laser beam is fanned (i.e. spread) out into a substantially planar laser illumination beam by the cylindrical lens element employed within each PLIM in the PLIIM system, the total output power in the planar laser illumination beam is distributed along the width of the beam in a roughly Gaussian distribution, as shown in the power vs. position plot of FIG. 1J2. Notably, this plot was constructed using actual data gathered with a planar laser illumination beam focused at the farthest object distance in the PLIIM system. For comparison purposes, the data points and a Gaussian curve fit are shown for the planar laser beam widths taken at the nearest and farthest object distances. To avoid having to consider two dimensions simultaneously (i.e. left-to-right along the planar laser beam width dimension and near-to-far through the object distance dimension), the discussion below will assume that only a single pixel is under consideration, and that this pixel views the target object at the center of the planar laser beam width.

For a fixed focal length imaging lens, the width L of the planar laser beam is a function of the fan/spread angle θ induced by (i) the cylindrical lens element in the PLIM and (ii) the object distance r, as defined by the following expression (2):

$\begin{matrix} {L = {2r\; \tan \; \frac{\theta}{2}}} & (2) \end{matrix}$

FIG. 1J3 shows a plot of beam width length L versus object distance r calculated using θ=50°, demonstrating the planar laser beam width increases as a function of increasing object distance.

The height parameter of the planar laser illumination beam “h” is controlled by adjusting the focusing lens 15 between the visible laser diode (VLD) 13 and the cylindrical lens 16, shown in FIGS. 1I1 and 1I2. FIG. 1J4 shows a typical plot of planar laser beam height h vs. image distance r for a planar laser illumination beam focused at the farthest object distance in accordance with the principles of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1J4, the height dimension of the planar laser beam decreases as a function of increasing object distance.

Assuming a reasonable total laser power output of 20 mW from the VLD 13 in each PLIM 11, the values shown in the plots of FIGS. 1J3 and 1J4 can be used to determine the power density E₀ of the planar laser beam at the center of its beam width, expressed as a function of object distance. This measure, plotted in FIG. 1K, demonstrates that the use of the laser beam focusing technique of the present invention, wherein the height of the planar laser illumination beam is decreased as the object distance increases, compensates for the increase in beam width in the planar laser illumination beam, which occurs for an increase in object distance. This yields a laser beam power density on the target object which increases as a function of increasing object distance over a substantial portion of the object distance range of the PLIIM system.

Finally, the power density E₀ plot shown in FIG. 1K can be used with expression (1) above to determine the power density on the pixel, E_(pix). This E_(pix) plot is shown in FIG. 1O. For comparison purposes, the plot obtained when using the beam focusing method of the present invention is plotted in FIG. 1O against a “reference” power density plot E_(pix) which is obtained when focusing the laser beam at infinity, using a collimating lens (rather than a focusing lens 15) disposed after the VLD 13, to produce a collimated-type planar laser illumination beam having a constant beam height of 1 mm over the entire portion of the object distance range of the system. Notably, however, this non-preferred beam collimating technique, selected as the reference plot in FIG. 1L, does not compensate for the above-described effects associated with an increase in planar laser beam width as a function of object distance. Consequently, when using this non-preferred beam focusing technique, the power density of the planar laser illumination beam produced by each PLIM decreases as a function of increasing object distance.

Therefore, in summary, where a fixed or variable focal length imaging subsystem is employed in the PLIIM system hereof, the planar laser beam focusing technique of the present invention described above helps compensate for decreases in the power density of the incident planar illumination beam due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases for increasing object distances away from the imaging subsystem.

Producing a Composite Planar Laser Illumination Beam Having Substantially Uniform Power Density Characteristics in Near And Far Fields By Additively Combining the Individual Gaussian Power Density Distributions of Planar Laser Illumination Beams Produced by Planar Laser Illumination Beam Modules (PLIMS) in Planar Laser Illumination Arrays (PLIAs)

Having described the best known method of focusing the planar laser illumination beam produced by each VLD in each PLIM in the PLIIM-based system hereof, it is appropriate at this juncture to describe how the individual Gaussian power density distributions of the planar laser illumination beams produced a PLIA 6A, 6B are additively combined to produce a composite planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics in near and far fields, as illustrated in FIGS. 1M1 and 1M2.

When the laser beam produced from the VLD is transmitted through the cylindrical lens, the output beam will be spread out into a laser illumination beam extending in a plane along the direction in which the lens has curvature. The beam size along the axis which corresponds to the height of the cylindrical lens will be transmitted unchanged. When the planar laser illumination beam is projected onto a target surface, its profile of power versus displacement will have an approximately Gaussian distribution. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the plurality of VLDs on each side of the IFD module are spaced out and tilted in such a way that their individual power density distributions add up to produce a (composite) planar laser illumination beam having a magnitude of illumination which is distributed substantially uniformly over the entire working depth of the PLIIM-based system (i.e. along the height and width of the composite planar laser illumination beam).

The actual positions of the PLIMs along each planar laser illumination array are indicated in FIG. 1G3 for the exemplary PLIIM-based system shown in FIGS. 1G1 through 1I2. The mathematical analysis used to analyze the results of summing up the individual power density functions of the PLIMs at both near and far working distances was carried out using the Matlab™ mathematical modeling program by Mathworks, Inc. (http://www.mathworks.com). These results are set forth in the data plots of FIGS. 1M1 and 1M2. Notably, in these data plots, the total power density is greater at the far field of the working range of the PLIIM system. This is because the VLDs in the PLIMs are focused to achieve minimum beam width thickness at the farthest object distance of the system, whereas the beam height is somewhat greater at the near field region. Thus, although the far field receives less illumination power at any given location, this power is concentrated into a smaller area, which results in a greater power density within the substantially planar extent of the planar laser illumination beam of the present invention.

When aligning the individual planar laser illumination beams (i.e. planar beam components) produced from each PLIM, it will be important to ensure that each such planar laser illumination beam spatially coincides with a section of the FOV of the imaging subsystem, so that the composite planar laser illumination beam produced by the individual beam components spatially coincides with the FOV of the imaging subsystem throughout the entire working depth of the PLIIM-based system.

Methods of Reducing the RMS Power Of Speckle-Noise Patterns Observed at the Linear Image Detection Array of a PLIIM-Based System When Illuminating Objects Using a Planar Laser Illumination Beam

In the PLIIM-based systems disclosed herein, nine (9) general classes of techniques and apparatus have been developed to effectively destroy or otherwise substantially reduce the spatial and/or temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources used to generate planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) within such systems, and thus enable time-varying speckle-noise patterns to be produced at the image detection array thereof and temporally (and possibly spatially) averaged over the photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-noise patterns observed (i.e. detected) at the image detection array.

In general, the root mean square (RMS) power of speckle-noise patterns in PLIIM-based systems can be reduced by using any combination of the following techniques: (I) by using a multiplicity of real laser (diode) illumination sources in the planar laser illumination arrays (PLIIM) of the PLIIM-based system and cylindrical lens array 299 after each PLIA to optically combine and project the planar laser beam components from these real illumination sources onto the target object to be illuminated, as illustrated in the various embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein; and/or (2) by employing any of the seven generalized speckle-pattern noise reduction techniques of the present invention described in detail below which operate by generating independent virtual sources of laser illumination to effectively reduce the spatial and/or temporal coherence of the composite PLIB either transmitted to or reflected from the target object being illuminated. Notably, the speckle-noise reduction coefficient of the PLIIM-based system will be proportional to the square root of the number of statistically independent real and virtual sources of laser illumination created by the speckle-noise pattern reduction techniques employed within the PLIIM-based system.

In FIGS. 1I1 through 1I12B, a first generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the spatial coherence of the PLIB before it illuminates the target (i.e. object) by applying spatial phase modulation (SPM) techniques during the transmission of the PLIB towards the target.

In FIGS. 1I13 and 1I3A, a second generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the temporal coherence of the PLIB before it illuminates the target (i.e. object) by applying temporal intensity modulation (TIM) techniques during the transmission of the PLIB towards the target.

In FIGS. 114 through 115E, a third generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the temporal coherence of the PLIB before it illuminates the target (i.e. object) by applying temporal phase modulation (TPM) techniques during the transmission of the PLIB towards the target.

In FIGS. 116 through 117C, a fourth generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the spatial coherence of the PLIB before it illuminates the target (i.e. object) by applying temporal frequency modulation (TFM) (e.g. compounding/complexing) techniques during transmission of the PLIB towards the target.

In FIGS. 18 through 1I8B, a fifth generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the spatial coherence of the PLIB before it illuminates the target (i.e. object) by applying spatial intensity modulation (SIM) techniques during the transmission of the PLIB towards the target.

In FIGS. 1I9 through 1I9D, a sixth generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the spatial coherence of the PLIB after the transmitted PLIB reflects and/or scatters off the illuminated the target (i.e. object) by applying spatial intensity modulation (SIM_techniques during the detection of the reflected/scattered PLIB.

In FIG. 1I10 through 10I10C, an seventh generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves reducing the temporal coherence of the PLIB after the transmitted PLIB reflects and/or scatters off the illuminated the target (i.e. object) by applying temporal intensity modulation (TIM) techniques during the detection of the reflected/scattered PLIB.

In FIGS. 1I11, an eighth generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves consecutively detecting numerous images containing substantially different time-varying speckle-noise patterns over a consecutive series of photo-integration time periods in the PLIIM-based system, and then processing these images in order temporally and spatially average the time-varying speckle-noise patterns, thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-pattern noise observable at the image detection array thereof.

In FIG. 1I12, an ninth generalized method of speckle-noise pattern reduction in accordance with the principles of the present invention and particular forms of apparatus therefor are schematically illustrated. This generalized method involves spatially averaging numerous spatially (and time) varying speckle-noise patterns over the entire surface of each image detection element in the image detection array of a PLIIM-based system during each photo-integration time period thereof, thereby reducing the RMS power level of speckle-pattern noise observed at the PLIIM-based subsystem.

Notably, each of the generalized methods of speckle-noise pattern reduction to be described below are assumed to satisfy the general conditions under which the random “speckle-noise” process is Gaussian in character. These general conditions have been clearly identified by J. C. Dainty, et al, in page 124 of “Laser Speckle and Related Phenomena”, supra, and are restated below for the sake of completeness: (i) that the standard deviation of the surface height fluctuations in the scattering surface (i.e. target object) should be greater than λ, thus ensuring that the phase of the scattered wave is uniformly distributed in the range 0 to 2π; and (ii) that a great many independent scattering centers (on the target object) should contribute to any given point in the image detected at the image detector.

Details of these generalized methods, and particular ways of and means for practicing the same are disclosed in WIPO Publication No. WO 02/043195 by Applicants, and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Second Alternative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 1A

In FIG. 1N1, the second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1A, indicated by reference numeral 1B, is shown comprising: a 1-D type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3′, as shown in FIG. 1B1; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B. As shown, these arrays 6A and 6B are arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module 3 so that the field of view thereof is oriented in a direction that is coplanar with the planes of laser illumination produced by the planar illumination arrays, without using any laser beam or field of view folding mirrors. One primary advantage of this system architecture is that it does not require any laser beam or FOV folding mirrors, employs the few optical surfaces, and maximizes the return of laser light, and is easy to align. However, it is expected that this system design will most likely require a system housing having a height dimension which is greater than the height dimension required by the system design shown in FIG. 1B1.

As shown in FIG. 1N2, PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1N1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3 having an imaging subsystem with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a fixed focal distance, and a fixed field of view, and 1-D image detection array (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner. Preferably, the PLIIM-based system of FIGS. 1M1 and 1O2 is realized using the same or similar construction techniques shown in FIGS. 1G1 through 1I2, and described above.

Third Alternative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 1A

In FIG. 1O, the third illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIGS. 1A, indicated by reference numeral IC, is shown comprising: a 1-D type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 having a field of view (FOV), as shown in FIG. 1B1; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams; and a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B arranged. The function of the planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B is to fold the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 37A and 37B such that the field of view (FOV) of the image formation and detection module 3 is aligned in a direction that is coplanar with the planes of first and second planar laser illumination beams during object illumination and imaging operations. One notable disadvantage of this system architecture is that it requires additional optical surfaces which can reduce the intensity of outgoing laser illumination and therefore reduce slightly the intensity of returned laser illumination reflected off target objects. Also this system design requires a more complicated beam/FOV adjustment scheme. This system design can be best used when the planar laser illumination beams do not have large apex angles to provide sufficiently uniform illumination. In this system embodiment, the PLIMs are mounted on the optical bench as far back as possible from the beam folding mirrors, and cylindrical lenses with larger radiuses will be employed in the design of each PLIM.

As shown in FIG. 10, PLIIM-based system IC comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) 6A, 6B, and each PLIM being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module having an imaging subsystem with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a fixed focal distance, and a fixed field of view, and 1-D image detection array (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem; pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B arranged so as to fold the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner. Preferably, the PLIIM system of FIGS. 1N1 and 1N2 is realized using the same or similar construction techniques shown in FIGS. 1G1 through 1I2, and described above.

Fourth Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 1A

In FIG. 1P1, the fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIGS. 1A, indicated by reference numeral 1D, is shown comprising: a 1-D type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 having a field of view (FOV), as shown in FIG. 1B1; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view (FOV) of the image formation and detection module 3 about 90 degrees downwardly; and a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B arranged so as to fold the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B such that the planes of first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B are in a direction that is coplanar with the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3. Despite inheriting most of the disadvantages associated with the system designs shown in FIGS. 1B1 and 1R1, this system architecture allows the length of the system housing to be easily minimized, at the expense of an increase in the height and width dimensions of the system housing.

As shown in FIG. 1P2, PLIIM-based system 1D shown in FIG. 1P1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) 11A through 11F, and each PLIM being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3 having an imaging subsystem with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a fixed focal distance, and a fixed field of view, and 1-D image detection array (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA-http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view (FOV) of the image formation and detection module 3; a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 9 and 3 arranged so as to fold the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 37A and 37B; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner. Preferably, the PLIIM-based system of FIGS. 1P1 and 1P2 is realized using the same or similar construction techniques shown in FIGS. 1G1 through 1I2, and described above.

Applications for the First Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention, and the Illustrative Embodiments thereof

Fixed focal distance type PLIIM-based systems shown above are ideal for applications in which there is little variation in the object distance, such as in a conveyor-type bottom scanner applications. As such scanning systems employ a fixed focal length imaging lens, the image resolution requirements of such applications must be examined carefully to determine that the image resolution obtained is suitable for the intended application. Because the object distance is approximately constant for a bottom scanner application (i.e. the bar code almost always is illuminated and imaged within the same object plane), the dpi resolution of acquired images will be approximately constant. As image resolution is not a concern in this type of scanning applications, variable focal length (zoom) control is unnecessary, and a fixed focal length imaging lens should suffice and enable good results.

A fixed focal distance PLIIM system generally takes up less space than a variable or dynamic focus model because more advanced focusing methods require more complicated optics and electronics, and additional components such as motors. For this reason, fixed focus PLIIM-based systems are good choices for handheld and presentation scanners, wherein space and weight are always critical characteristics. In these applications, however, the object distance can vary over a range from several to a twelve or more inches, and so the designer must exercise care to ensure that the scanner's depth of field (DOF) alone will be sufficient to accommodate all possible variations in target object distance and orientation. Also, because a fixed focus imaging subsystem implies a fixed focal length camera lens, the variation in object distance implies that the dots per inch resolution of the image will vary as well. The focal length of the imaging lens must be chosen so that the angular width of the field of view (FOV) is narrow enough that the dpi image resolution will not fall below the minimum acceptable value anywhere within the range of object distances supported by the PLIIM-based system.

Second Generalized Embodiment of the Planar Laser Illumination and Electronic Imaging System of the Present Invention

The second generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention 11 is illustrated in FIGS. 1R1 and 1R3. As shown in FIG. 1R1, the PLIIM-based system 1′ comprises: a housing 2 of compact construction; a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3′; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B mounted on opposite sides of the IFD module 3′. During system operation, laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B each produce a planar beam of laser illumination 12′ which synchronously moves and is disposed substantially coplanar with the field of view (FOV) of the image formation and detection module 3′, so as to scan a bar code symbol or other graphical structure 4 disposed stationary within a 3-D scanning region.

As shown in FIGS. 1R2 and 1R3, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 1R1 comprises: an image formation and detection module 3′ having an imaging subsystem 3B′ with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a fixed focal distance, and a fixed field of view, and a 1-D image detection array 3 (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA-http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem; a field of view sweeping mirror 9 operably connected to a motor mechanism 38 under control of camera control computer 22, for folding and sweeping the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) 7A and 7B, wherein each VLD 11 is driven by a VLD drive circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; a pair of planar laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A and 37B operably connected to motor mechanisms 39A and 39B, respectively, under control of camera control computer 22, for folding and sweeping the planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B, respectively, in synchronism with the FOV being swept by the FOV folding and sweeping mirror 9; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

An image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 having an imaging lens with a fixed focal length has a constant angular field of view (FOV); that is, the farther the target object is located from the IFD module, the larger the projection dimensions of the imaging subsystem's FOV become on the surface of the target object. A disadvantage to this type of imaging lens is that the resolution of the image that is acquired, in terms of pixels or dots per inch, varies as a function of the distance from the target object to the imaging lens. However, a fixed focal length imaging lens is easier and less expensive to design and produce than the alternative, a zoom-type imaging lens which will be discussed in detail hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 3A.

Each planar laser illumination module 6A through 6B in PLIIM-based system 1′ is driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 under the camera control computer 22. Notably, laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirror 37A′ and 38B′, and FOV folding/sweeping mirror 9′ are each rotatably driven by a motor-driven mechanism 38, 39A, and 39B, respectively, operated under the control of the camera control computer 22. These three mirror elements can be synchronously moved in a number of different ways. For example, the mirrors 37A′, 37B′ and 9′ can be jointly rotated together under the control of one or more motor-driven mechanisms, or each mirror element can be driven by a separate driven motor which is synchronously controlled to enable the planar laser illumination beams 7A, 7B and FOV 10 to move together in a spatially-coplanar manner during illumination and detection operations within the PLIIM-based system.

In accordance with the present invention, the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, the linear image formation and detection module 3, the folding/sweeping FOV mirror 9′, and the planar laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′ employed in this generalized system embodiment, are fixedly mounted on an optical bench or chassis 8 so as to prevent any relative motion (which might be caused by vibration or temperature changes) between: (i) the image forming optics (e.g. imaging lens) within the image formation and detection module 3 and the FOV folding/sweeping mirror 9′ employed therewith; and (ii) each planar laser illumination module (i.e. VLD/cylindrical lens assembly) and the planar laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′ employed in this PLIIM system configuration. Preferably, the chassis assembly should provide for easy and secure alignment of all optical components employed in the planar laser illumination arrays 6A′ and 6B′, beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′, the image formation and detection module 3 and FOV folding/sweeping mirror 9′, as well as be easy to manufacture, service and repair. Also, this generalized PLIIM-based system embodiment 1′ employs the general “planar laser illumination” and “focus beam at farthest object distance (FBAFOD)” principles described above.

Applications for the Second Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM System of the Present Invention

The fixed focal length PLIIM-based system shown in FIGS. 1R1 through 1R3 has a 3-D fixed field of view which, while spatially-aligned with a composite planar laser illumination beam 12 in a coplanar manner, is automatically swept over a 3-D scanning region within which bar code symbols and other graphical indicia 4 may be illuminated and imaged in accordance with the principles of the present invention. As such, this generalized embodiment of the present invention is ideally suited for use hands-free presentation type bar code symbol readers, in which rasterlike-scanning (i.e. up and down) patterns can be used for reading 1-D as well as 2-D bar code symbologies such as the PDF 147 symbology. In general, the PLIIM-based system of this generalized embodiment may have any of the housing form factors disclosed and described in Applicants' copending U.S. application Ser. Nos. 09/204,176 entitled filed Dec. 3, 1998 and 09/452,976 filed Dec. 2, 1999, and WIPO Publication No. WO 00/33239 published Jun. 8, 2000, incorporated herein by reference. The beam sweeping technology disclosed in copending application Ser. No. 08/931,691 filed Sep. 16, 1997, incorporated herein by reference, can be used to uniformly sweep both the planar laser illumination beam and linear FOV in a coplanar manner during illumination and imaging operations.

Third Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention

The third generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention 40 is illustrated in FIG. 2A. As shown therein, the PLIIM system 40 comprises: a housing 2 of compact construction; a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3′ including a 1-D electronic image detection array 3A, a linear (1-D) imaging subsystem (LIS) 3B′ having a fixed focal length, a variable focal distance, and a fixed field of view (FOV), for forming a 1-D image of an illuminated object located within the fixed focal distance and FOV thereof and projected onto the 1-D image detection array 3A, so that the 1-D image detection array 3A can electronically detect the image formed thereon and automatically produce a digital image data set 5 representative of the detected image for subsequent image processing; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B, each mounted on opposite sides of the IFD module 3′, such that each planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B produces a composite plane of laser beam illumination 12 which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field view of the image formation and detection module 3′ during object illumination and image detection operations carried out by the PLIIM-based system.

In accordance with the present invention, the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, the linear image formation and detection module 3′, and any non-moving FOV and/or planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors employed in any configuration of this generalized system embodiment, are fixedly mounted on an optical bench or chassis so as to prevent any relative motion (which might be caused by vibration or temperature changes) between: (i) the image forming optics (e.g. imaging lens) within the image formation and detection module 3′ and any stationary FOV folding mirrors employed therewith; and (ii) each planar laser illumination module (i.e. VLD/cylindrical lens assembly) and any planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors employed in the PLIIM system configuration. Preferably, the chassis assembly should provide for easy and secure alignment of all optical components employed in the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B as well as the image formation and detection module 3′, as well as be easy to manufacture, service and repair. Also, this generalized PLIIM-based system embodiment 40 employs the general “planar laser illumination” and “focus beam at farthest object distance (FBAFOD)” principles described above. Various illustrative embodiments of this generalized PLIIM-based system will be described below.

An image formation and detection (IFD) module 3 having an imaging lens with variable focal distance, as employed in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A, can adjust its image distance to compensate for a change in the target's object distance; thus, at least some of the component lens elements in the imaging subsystem are movable, and the depth of field of the imaging subsystems does not limit the ability of the imaging subsystem to accommodate possible object distances and orientations. A variable focus imaging subsystem is able to move its components in such a way as to change the image distance of the imaging lens to compensate for a change in the target's object distance, thus preserving good focus no matter where the target object might be located. Variable focus can be accomplished in several ways, namely: by moving lens elements; moving imager detector/sensor; and dynamic focus. Each of these different methods will be summarized below for sake of convenience.

Use of Moving Lens Elements in the Image Formation and Detection Module

The imaging subsystem in this generalized PLIIM-based system embodiment can employ an imaging lens which is made up of several component lenses contained in a common lens barrel. A variable focus type imaging lens such as this can move one or more of its lens elements in order to change the effective distance between the lens and the image sensor, which remains stationary. This change in the image distance compensates for a change in the object distance of the target object and keeps the return light in focus. The position at which the focusing lens element(s) must be in order to image light returning from a target object at a given object distance is determined by consulting a lookup table, which must be constructed ahead of time, either experimentally or by design software, well known in the optics art.

Use of an Moving Image Detection Array in the Image Formation and Detection Module

The imaging subsystem in this generalized PLIIM-based system embodiment can be constructed so that all the lens elements remain stationary, with the imaging detector/sensor array being movable relative to the imaging lens so as to change the image distance of the imaging subsystem. The position at which the image detector/sensor must be located to image light returning from a target at a given object distance is determined by consulting a lookup table, which must be constructed ahead of time, either experimentally or by design software, well known in the art.

Use of Dynamic Focal Distance Control in the Image Formation and Detection Module

The imaging subsystem in this generalized PLIIM-based system embodiment can be designed to embody a “dynamic” form of variable focal distance (i.e. focus) control, which is an advanced form of variable focus control. In conventional variable focus control schemes, one focus (i.e. focal distance) setting is established in anticipation of a given target object. The object is imaged using that setting, then another setting is selected for the next object image, if necessary. However, depending on the shape and orientation of the target object, a single target object may exhibit enough variation in its distance from the imaging lens to make it impossible for a single focus setting to acquire a sharp image of the entire object. In this case, the imaging subsystem must change its focus setting while the object is being imaged. This adjustment does not have to be made continuously; rather, a few discrete focus settings will generally be sufficient. The exact number will depend on the shape and orientation of the package being imaged and the depth of field of the imaging subsystem used in the IFD module.

It should be noted that dynamic focus control is only used with a linear image detection/sensor array, as used in the system embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A through 3J4. The reason for this limitation is quite clear: an area-type image detection array captures an entire image after a rapid number of exposures to the planar laser illumination beam, and although changing the focus setting of the imaging subsystem might clear up the image in one part of the detector array, it would induce blurring in another region of the image, thus failing to improve the overall quality of the acquired image.

First Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System Shown in FIG. 2A

The first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A, indicated by reference numeral 40A, is shown in FIG. 2B1. As illustrated therein, the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3′ and the first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B produced by the planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B, respectively, are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and image detection operations.

The PLIIM-based system illustrated in FIG. 2B1 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 2B2. As shown therein, the linear image formation and detection module 3′ is shown comprising an imaging subsystem 3B′, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA-http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images (e.g. 6000 pixels, at a 60 MHZ scanning rate) formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B′, providing an image resolution of 200 dpi or 8 pixels/mm, as the image resolution that results from a fixed focal length imaging lens is the function of the object distance (i.e. the longer the object distance, the lower the resolution). The imaging subsystem 3B′ has a fixed focal length imaging lens (e.g. 80 mm Pentax lens, F4.5), a fixed field of view (FOV), and a variable focal distance imaging capability (e.g. 36″ total scanning range), and an auto-focusing image plane with a response time of about 20-30 milliseconds over about 5 mm working range.

As shown, each planar laser illumination array (PLIA) 6A, 6B comprises a plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) 11A through 11F, closely arranged relative to each other, in a rectilinear fashion. As taught hereinabove, the relative spacing and orientation of each PLIM 11 is such that the spatial intensity distribution of the individual planar laser beams 7A, 7B superimpose and additively produce composite planar laser illumination beam 12 having a substantially uniform power density distribution along the widthwise dimensions of the laser illumination beam, throughout the entire working range of the PLIIM-based system.

As shown in FIG. 2C1, the PLIIM system of FIG. 2B1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3A; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3A, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 2C2 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3′ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2B1. As shown, the IFD module 3′ comprises a variable focus fixed focal length imaging subsystem 3B′ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 30 contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). The imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises a group of stationary lens elements 3B′ mounted along the optical bench before the image detecting array 3A, and a group of focusing lens elements 3B′ (having a fixed effective focal length) mounted along the optical bench in front of the stationary lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis with an optical element translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the entire group of focal lens elements remain stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the entire group of focal lens elements back and forth with translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. In customized applications, it is possible for the individual lens elements in the group of focusing lens elements 3B′ to be moved in response to control signals generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken, an IFD module 3′ with variable focus fixed focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Second Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 2A

The second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A, indicated by reference numeral 40B, is shown in FIG. 2D1 as comprising: an image formation and detection module 3′ having an imaging subsystem 3B′ with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B′; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3′; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module 3′ such that the field of view thereof folded by the field of view folding mirror 9 is oriented in a direction that is coplanar with the composite plane of laser illumination 12 produced by the planar illumination arrays, during object illumination and image detection operations, without using any laser beam folding mirrors.

One primary advantage of this system design is that it enables a construction having an ultra-low height profile suitable, for example, in unitary object identification and attribute acquisition systems of the type disclosed in FIGS. 17-22, wherein the image-based bar code symbol reader needs to be installed within a compartment (or cavity) of a housing having relatively low height dimensions. Also, in this system design, there is a relatively high degree of freedom provided in where the image formation and detection module 3′ can be mounted on the optical bench of the system, thus enabling the field of view (FOV) folding technique disclosed in FIG. 1L1 to be practiced in a relatively easy manner.

As shown in FIG. 2D2, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2D1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3′; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3′; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3′, for accessing I-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 2D2 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3′ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2D1. As shown, the IFD module 3′ comprises a variable focus fixed focal length imaging subsystem 3B′ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). The imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises a group of stationary lens elements 3A′ mounted along the optical bench before the image detecting array 3A′, and a group of focusing lens elements 3B′ (having a fixed effective focal length) mounted along the optical bench in front of the stationary lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis with a translator 3E, in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the entire group of focal lens elements remain stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ back and forth with translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the I-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. In customized applications, it is possible for the individual lens elements in the group of focusing lens elements 3B′ to be moved in response to control signals generated by the camera control computer. Regardless of the approach taken, an IFD module 3′ with variable focus fixed focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Third Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 2A

The second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A, indicated by reference numeral 40C, is shown in FIG. 2D1 as comprising: an image formation and detection module 3′ having an imaging subsystem 3B′ with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B′; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A, 7B, and a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B for folding the planes of the planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B, in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of the field of view of the image formation and detection during object illumination and image detection operations.

The primary disadvantage of this system architecture is that it requires additional optical surfaces (i.e. the planar laser beam folding mirrors) which reduce outgoing laser light and therefore the return laser light slightly. Also this embodiment requires a complicated beam/FOV adjustment scheme. Thus, this system design can be best used when the planar laser illumination beams do not have large apex angles to provide sufficiently uniform illumination. Notably, in this system embodiment, the PLIMs are mounted on the optical bench 8 as far back as possible from the beam folding mirrors 37A, 37B, and cylindrical lenses 16 with larger radiuses will be employed in the design of each PLIM 11.

As shown in FIG. 2E2, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2E1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3′; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3′; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3A, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 2E3 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3′ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2E1. As shown, the IFD module 3′ comprises a variable focus fixed focal length imaging subsystem 3B′ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). The imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises a group of stationary lens elements 3A1 mounted along the optical bench before the image detecting array 3A, and a group of focusing lens elements 3B′ (having a fixed effective focal length) mounted along the optical bench in front of the stationary lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ remain stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ back and forth with translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. In customized applications, it is possible for the individual lens elements in the group of focusing lens elements 3B′ to be moved in response to control signals generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken, an IFD module 3′ with variable focus fixed focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Fourth Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 2A

The fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2A, indicated by reference numeral 40D, is shown in FIG. 2F1 as comprising: an image formation and detection module 3′ having an imaging subsystem 3B′ with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B′; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the FOV of the imaging subsystem 3B′; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams; and a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B arranged in relation to the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B so as to fold the optical paths of the first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A, 7B in a direction that is coplanar with the folded FOV of the image formation and detection module 3′, during object illumination and image detection operations.

As shown in FIG. 2F2, the PLIIM system 40D of FIG. 2F1 further comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11B, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3′; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3′; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3A, for accessing I-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 2F3 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3′ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2F1. As shown, the IFD module 3′ comprises a variable focus fixed focal length imaging subsystem 3B′ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). The imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises a group of stationary lens elements 3A1 mounted along the optical bench 3D before the image detecting array 3A, and a group of focusing lens elements 3B′ (having a fixed effective focal length) mounted along the optical bench in front of the stationary lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis with translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ remain stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ back and forth with translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the I-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. In customized applications, it is possible for the individual lens elements in the group of focusing lens elements 3B′ to be moved in response to control signals generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken, an IFD module with variable focus fixed focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Applications for the Third Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention, and the Illustrative Embodiments Thereof

As the PLIIM-based systems shown in FIGS. 2A through 2F3 employ an IFD module 3′ having a linear image detecting array and an imaging subsystem having variable focus (i.e. focal distance) control, such PLIIM-based systems are good candidates for use in a conveyor top scanner application, as shown in FIG. 2G, as the variation in target object distance can be up to a meter or more (from the imaging subsystem). In general, such object distances are too great a range for the depth of field (DOF) characteristics of the imaging subsystem alone to accommodate such object distance parameter variations during object illumination and imaging operations. Provision for variable focal distance control is generally sufficient for the conveyor top scanner application shown in FIG. 2G, as the demands on the depth of field and variable focus or dynamic focus control characteristics of such PLIIM-based system are not as severe in the conveyor top scanner application, as they might be in the conveyor side scanner application, also illustrated in FIG. 2G.

Notably, by adding dynamic focusing functionality to the imaging subsystem of any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A through 2F3, the resulting PLIIM-based system becomes appropriate for the conveyor side-scanning application discussed above, where the demands on the depth of field and variable focus or dynamic focus requirements are greater compared to a conveyor top scanner application.

Fourth Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM System of the Present Invention

The fourth generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system 40′ of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 2H1 and 2H2. As shown in FIG. 2I1, the PLIIM-based system 40′ comprises: a housing 2 of compact construction; a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3′; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B mounted on opposite sides of the IFD module 3′. During system operation, laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B each produce a moving planar laser illumination beam 12′ which synchronously moves and is disposed substantially coplanar with the field of view (FOV) of the image formation and detection module 3′, so as to scan a bar code symbol or other graphical structure 4 disposed stationary within a 3-D scanning region.

As shown in FIGS. 2H2 and 2H3, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 2H1 comprises: an image formation and detection module 3′ having an imaging subsystem 3B′ with a fixed focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a fixed field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B′; a field of view folding and sweeping mirror 9′ for folding and sweeping the field of view 10 of the image formation and detection module 3′; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B, wherein each VLD 11 is driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; a pair of planar laser illumination beam sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′ for folding and sweeping the planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B, respectively, in synchronism with the FOV being swept by the FOV folding and sweeping mirror 9′; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3A, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner. As shown in FIG. 2F2, each planar laser illumination module 11A through 11F, is driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 under the camera control computer 22. Notably, laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′, and FOV folding/sweeping mirror 9′ are each rotatably driven by a motor-driven mechanism 39A, 39B, 38, respectively, operated under the control of the camera control computer 22. These three mirror elements can be synchronously moved in a number of different ways. For example, the mirrors 37A′, 37B′ and 9′ can be jointly rotated together under the control of one or more motor-driven mechanisms, or each mirror element can be driven by a separate driven motor which are synchronously controlled to enable the composite planar laser illumination beam and FOV to move together in a spatially-coplanar manner during illumination and detection operations within the PLIIM system.

FIG. 2H4 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3′ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 211. As shown, the IFD module 3′ comprises a variable focus fixed focal length imaging subsystem 3B′ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). The imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises a group of stationary lens elements 3A1 mounted along the optical bench before the image detecting array 3A, and a group of focusing lens elements 3B′ (having a fixed effective focal length) mounted along the optical bench in front of the stationary lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ remain stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the entire group of focal lens elements 3B′ back and forth with a translator 3C in response to a first set of control signals 3E generated by the camera control computer 22, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. In customized applications, it is possible for the individual lens elements in the group of focusing lens elements 3B′ to be moved in response to control signals generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken, an IFD module 3′ with variable focus fixed focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

In accordance with the present invention, the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, the linear image formation and detection module 3′, the folding/sweeping FOV mirror 9′, and the planar laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′ employed in this generalized system embodiment, are fixedly mounted on an optical bench or chassis 8 so as to prevent any relative motion (which might be caused by vibration or temperature changes) between: (i) the image forming optics (e.g. imaging lens) within the image formation and detection module 3′ and the FOV folding/sweeping mirror 9′ employed therewith; and (ii) each planar laser illumination module (i.e. VLD/cylindrical lens assembly) and the planar laser illumination beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′ employed in this PLIIM-based system configuration. Preferably, the chassis assembly should provide for easy and secure alignment of all optical components employed in the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B1, beam folding/sweeping mirrors 37A′ and 37B′, the image formation and detection module 3′ and FOV folding/sweeping mirror 9′, as well as be easy to manufacture, service and repair. Also, this generalized PLIIM system embodiment 40′ employs the general “planar laser illumination” and “focus beam at farthest object distance (FBAFOD)” principles described above.

Applications for the Fourth Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention

As the PLIIM-based systems shown in FIGS. 2H1 through 2H4 employ (i) an IFD module having a linear image detecting array and an imaging subsystem having variable focus (i.e. focal distance) control, and (ii) a mechanism for automatically sweeping both the planar (2-D) FOV and planar laser illumination beam through a 3-D scanning field in an “up and down” pattern while maintaining the inventive principle of “laser-beam/FOV coplanarity” disclosed herein, such PLIIM-based systems are good candidates for use in a hand-held scanner application.

Fifth Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention

The fifth generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, indicated by reference numeral 50, is illustrated in FIG. 3A. As shown therein, the PLIIM system 50 comprises: a housing 2 of compact construction; a linear (i.e. 1-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module 3″ including a 1-D electronic image detection array 3A, a linear (1-D) imaging subsystem (LIS) 3B″ having a variable focal length, a variable focal distance, and a variable field of view (FOV), for forming a 1-D image of an illuminated object located within the fixed focal distance and FOV thereof and projected onto the 1-D image detection array 3A, so that the 1-D image detection array 3A can electronically detect the image formed thereon and automatically produce a digital image data set 5 representative of the detected image for subsequent image processing; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B, each mounted on opposite sides of the IFD module 3″, such that each planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B produces a plane of laser beam illumination 7A, 7B which is disposed substantially coplanar with the field view of the image formation and detection module 3″ during object illumination and image detection operations carried out by the PLIIM-based system.

In the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3A, the linear image formation and detection (IFD) module 3″ has an imaging lens with a variable focal length (i.e. a zoom-type imaging lens) 3B1, that has a variable angular field of view (FOV); that is, the farther the target object is located from the IFD module, the larger the projection dimensions of the imaging subsystem's FOV become on the surface of the target object. A zoom imaging lens is capable of changing its focal length, and therefore its angular field of view (FOV) by moving one or more of its component lens elements. The position at which the zooming lens element(s) must be in order to achieve a given focal length is determined by consulting a lookup table, which must be constructed ahead of time either experimentally or by design software, in a manner well known in the art. An advantage to using a zoom lens is that the resolution of the image that is acquired, in terms of pixels or dots per inch, remains constant no matter what the distance from the target object to the lens. However, a zoom camera lens is more difficult and more expensive to design and produce than the alternative, a fixed focal length camera lens.

The image formation and detection (IFD) module 3″ in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3A also has an imaging lens 3B2 with variable focal distance, which can adjust its image distance to compensate for a change in the target's object distance. Thus, at least some of the component lens elements in the imaging subsystem 3B2 are movable, and the depth of field (DOF) of the imaging subsystem does not limit the ability of the imaging subsystem to accommodate possible object distances and orientations. This variable focus imaging subsystem 3B2 is able to move its components in such a way as to change the image distance of the imaging lens to compensate for a change in the target's object distance, thus preserving good image focus no matter where the target object might be located. This variable focus technique can be practiced in several different ways, namely: by moving lens elements in the imaging subsystem; by moving the image detection/sensing array relative to the imaging lens; and by dynamic focus control. Each of these different methods has been described in detail above.

In accordance with the present invention, the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B the image formation and detection module 3″ are fixedly mounted on an optical bench or chassis assembly 8 so as to prevent any relative motion between (i) the image forming optics (e.g. camera lens) within the image formation and detection module 3″ and (ii) each planar laser illumination module (i.e. VLD/cylindrical lens assembly) employed in the PLIIM-based system which might be caused by vibration or temperature changes. Preferably, the chassis assembly should provide for easy and secure alignment of all optical components employed in the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B as well as the image formation and detection module 3″, as well as be easy to manufacture, service and repair. Also, this PLIIM-based system employs the general “planar laser illumination” and “FBAFOD” principles described above.

First Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 3B1

The first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-Based system of FIG. 3A, indicated by reference numeral 50A, is shown in FIG. 3B1. As illustrated therein, the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3″ and the first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B produced by the planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B, respectively, are arranged in a substantially coplanar relationship during object illumination and image detection operations.

The PLIIM-based system 50A illustrated in FIG. 3B1 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 3B2. As shown therein, the linear image formation and detection module 3″ is shown comprising an imaging subsystem 3B″, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA-http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B″. The imaging subsystem 3B″ has a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view. As shown, each planar laser illumination array 6A, 6B comprises a plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs) 11A through 11F, closely arranged relative to each other, in a rectilinear fashion. As taught hereinabove, the relative spacing of each PLIM 11 in the illustrative embodiment is such that the spatial intensity distribution of the individual planar laser beams superimpose and additively provide a composite planar case illumination beam having substantially uniform composite spatial intensity distribution for the entire planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B.

As shown in FIG. 3C1, the PLIIM-based system 50A of FIG. 3B1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3″; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3A, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 3C2 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3″ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3B1. As shown, the IFD module 3″ comprises a variable focus variable focal length imaging subsystem 3B″ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). In general, the imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises: a first group of focal lens elements 3A1 mounted stationary relative to the image detecting array 3A; a second group of lens elements 3B2, functioning as a focal lens assembly, movably mounted along the optical bench in front of the first group of stationary lens elements 3A1; and a third group of lens elements 3B1, functioning as a zoom lens assembly, movably mounted between the second group of focal lens elements and the first group of stationary focal lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 back and forth with translator 3C1 in response to a first set of control signals generated by the camera control computer 22, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis with translator 3C1 in response to a first set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22, while the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 remain stationary. For zoom control (i.e. variable focal length control), the focal lens elements in the third group 3B2 are typically moved relative to each other with translator 3C1 in response to a second set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken in any particular illustrative embodiment, an IFD module with variable focus variable focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Method of Adjusting the Focal Characteristics of the Planar Laser Illumination Beams (PLIBs) Generated by Planar Laser Illumination Arrays (PLIAs) Used in Conjunction with Image Formation And Detection (IFD) Modules Employing Variable Focal Length (Zoom) Imaging Lenses

Unlike the fixed focal length imaging lens case, there occurs a significant a 1/r² drop-off in laser return light intensity at the image detection array when using a zoom (variable focal length) imaging lens in the PLIIM-based system hereof. In PLIIM-based system employing an imaging subsystem having a variable focal length imaging lens, the area of the imaging subsystem's field of view (FOV) remains constant as the working distance increases. Such variable focal length control is used to ensure that each image formed and detected by the image formation and detection (IFD) module 3″ has the same number of “dots per inch” (DPI) resolution, regardless of the distance of the target object from the IFD module 3″. However, since module's field of view does not increase in size with the object distance, equation (8) must be rewritten as the equation (3) set forth below

$\begin{matrix} {E_{ccd}^{zoom} = \frac{E_{0}f^{2}s^{2}}{8d^{2}F^{2}r^{2}}} & (3) \end{matrix}$

where s² is the area of the field of view and d² is the area of a pixel on the image detecting array. This expression is a strong function of the object distance, and demonstrates 1/r² drop off of the return light. If a zoom lens is to be used, then it is desirable to have a greater power density at the farthest object distance than at the nearest, to compensate for this loss. Again, focusing the beam at the farthest object distance is the technique that will produce this result.

Therefore, in summary, where a variable focal length (i.e. zoom) imaging subsystem is employed in the PLIIM-based system, the planar laser beam focusing technique of the present invention described above helps compensate for (i) decreases in the power density of the incident illumination beam due to the fact that the width of the planar laser illumination beam increases for increasing distances away from the imaging subsystem, and (ii) any 1/r² type losses that would typically occur when using the planar laser planar illumination beam of the present invention.

Second Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 3A

The second illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3A, indicated by reference numeral 50B, is shown in FIG. 3D1 as comprising: an image formation and detection module 3″ having an imaging subsystem 3B with a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B″; a field of view folding mirror 9 for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3″; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B arranged in relation to the image formation and detection module 3″ such that the field of view thereof folded by the field of view folding mirror 9 is oriented in a direction that is coplanar with the composite plane of laser illumination 12 produced by the planar illumination arrays, during object illumination and image detection operations, without using any laser beam folding mirrors.

As shown in FIG. 3D2, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3E1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3A; a field of view folding mirror 9′ for folding the field of view of the image formation and detection module 3″; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3″, for accessing I-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 3D3 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3″ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3D1. As shown, the IFD module 3″ comprises a variable focus variable focal length imaging subsystem 3B″ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). In general, the imaging subsystem 3B″ comprises: a first group of focal lens elements 3A1 mounted stationary relative to the image detecting array 3A; a second group of lens elements 3B2, functioning as a focal lens assembly, movably mounted along the optical bench in front of the first group of stationary lens elements 3A; and a third group of lens elements 3B1, functioning as a zoom lens assembly, movably mounted between the second group of focal lens elements and the first group of stationary focal lens elements 3B2. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 back and forth with translator 3C2 in response to a first set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis with translator 3C2 in response to a first set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22, while the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 remain stationary. For zoom control (i.e. variable focal length control), the focal lens elements in the third group 3B1 are typically moved relative to each other with translator 3C1 in response to a second set of control signals 3E1 generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken in any particular illustrative embodiment, an IFD module 3″ with variable focus variable focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Detailed Description of an Exemplary Realization of the PLIIM-Based System Shown in FIG. 3D1 through 3D3

Referring now to FIGS. 3D4 through 3D6, an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system, indicated by reference numeral 50B, shown in FIGS. 3D1 through 3E3 will now be described in detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 3D41 and 3D5, an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system 50B shown in FIGS. 3D1-3D3 is indicated by reference numeral 25′ contained within a compact housing 2 having height, length and width dimensions of about 4.5″, 21.7″ and 19.7″, respectively, to enable easy mounting above a conveyor belt structure or the like. As shown in FIG. 3D4, 3D5 and 3D6, the PLIIM-based system comprises a linear image formation and detection module 3″, a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A, and 6B, and a field of view (FOV) folding structure (e.g. mirror, refractive element, or diffractive element) 9. The function of the FOV folding mirror 9 is to fold the field of view (FOV) 10 of the image formation and detection module 3′ in an imaging direction that is coplanar with the plane of laser illumination beams (PLIBs) 7A and 7B produced by the planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B. As shown, these components are fixedly mounted to an optical bench 8 supported within the compact housing 2 so that these optical components are forced to oscillate together. The linear CCD imaging array 3A can be realized using a variety of commercially available high-speed line-scan camera systems such as, for example, the Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com. Notably, image frame grabber 19, image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20, image processing computer 21, and camera control computer 22 are realized on one or more printed circuit (PC) boards contained within a camera and system electronic module 27 also mounted on the optical bench, or elsewhere in the system housing 2.

As shown in FIG. 3D6, a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 is mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) adjacent the illumination window formed within the optics bench 8 of the PLIIM-based system 25′. The function performed by cylindrical lens array 299 is to optically combine the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and project the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated. By virtue of this inventive feature, each point on the object surface being imaged will be illuminated by different sources of laser illumination located at different points in space (i.e. spatially coherent-reduced laser illumination), thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-pattern noise observable at the linear image detection array of the PLIIM-based system.

While this system design requires additional optical surfaces (i.e. planar laser beam folding mirrors) which complicates laser-beam/FOV alignment, and attenuates slightly the intensity of collected laser return light, this system design will be beneficial when the FOV of the imaging subsystem cannot have a large apex angle, as defined as the angular aperture of the imaging lens (in the zoom lens assembly), due to the fact that the IFD module 3″ must be mounted on the optical bench in a backed-off manner to the conveyor belt (or maximum object distance plane), and a longer focal length lens (or zoom lens with a range of longer focal lengths) is chosen.

One notable advantage of this system design is that it enables a construction having an ultra-low height profile suitable, for example, in unitary object identification and attribute acquisition systems of the type disclosed in FIGS. 17-22, wherein the image-based bar code symbol reader needs to be installed within a compartment (or cavity) of a housing having relatively low height dimensions. Also, in this system design, there is a relatively high degree of freedom provided in where the image formation and detection module 3″ can be mounted on the optical bench of the system, thus enabling a field of view (FOV) folding technique to be practiced in a relatively easy manner.

As shown in FIG. 3D4, the compact housing 2 has a relatively long light transmission window 28 of elongated dimensions for the projecting the FOV 10 of the image formation and detection module 3″ through the housing towards a predefined region of space outside thereof, within which objects can be illuminated and imaged by the system components on the optical bench. Also, the compact housing 2 has a pair of relatively short light transmission apertures 30A and 30B, closely disposed on opposite ends of light transmission window 28, with minimal spacing therebetween, as shown in FIG. 3D4. Such spacing is to ensure that the FOV emerging from the housing 2 can spatially overlap in a coplanar manner with the substantially planar laser illumination beams projected through transmission windows 29A and 29B, as close to transmission window 28 as desired by the system designer, as shown in FIGS. 3E6 and 3E7. Notably, in some applications, it is desired for such coplanar overlap between the FOV and planar laser illumination beams to occur very close to the light transmission windows 28, 29A and 29B (i.e. at short optical throw distances), but in other applications, for such coplanar overlap to occur at large optical throw distances.

In either event, each planar laser illumination array 6A and 6B is optically isolated from the FOV of the image formation and detection module 3″ to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the system. In the preferred embodiment, such optical isolation is achieved by providing a set of opaque wall structures 30A, 30B about each planar laser illumination array, extending from the optical bench 8 to its light transmission window 29A or 29B, respectively. Such optical isolation structures prevent the image formation and detection module 3″ from detecting any laser light transmitted directly from the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B within the interior of the housing. Instead, the image formation and detection module 3″ can only receive planar laser illumination that has been reflected off an illuminated object, and focused through the imaging subsystem 3B″ of the IFD module 3″.

Notably, the linear image formation and detection module of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3D4 has an imaging subsystem 3B″ with a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance, and a variable field of view.

In order that PLLIM-based subsystem 25′ can be readily interfaced to and an integrated (e.g. embedded) within various types of computer-based systems, subsystem 25′ also comprises an I/O subsystem 500 operably connected to camera control computer 22 and image processing computer 21, and a network controller 501 for enabling high-speed data communication with others computers in a local or wide area network using packet-based networking protocols (e.g. Ethernet, AppleTalk, etc.) well known in the art.

Third Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 3A

The third illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3A, indicated by reference numeral 50C, is shown in FIG. 3E1 as comprising: an image formation and detection module 3″ having an imaging subsystem 3B″ with a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B″; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) 7A and 7B, respectively; and a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B for folding the planes of the planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B, in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of the FOV of the image formation and detection module 3″ during object illumination and imaging operations.

One notable disadvantage of this system architecture is that it requires additional optical surfaces (i.e. the planar laser beam folding mirrors) which reduce outgoing laser light and therefore the return laser light slightly. Also this system design requires a more complicated beam/FOV adjustment scheme than the direct-viewing design shown in FIG. 3B1. Thus, this system design can be best used when the planar laser illumination beams do not have large apex angles to provide sufficiently uniform illumination. Notably, in this system embodiment, the PLIMs are mounted on the optical bench as far back as possible from the beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B, and cylindrical lenses 16 with larger radiuses will be employed in the design of each PLIM 11A through 11P.

As shown in FIG. 3E2, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3E1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3A; a pair of planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B, for folding the planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B in the imaging direction; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3″, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 3E3 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3″ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3E1. As shown, the IFD module 3″ comprises a variable focus variable focal length imaging subsystem 3B″ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). In general, the imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises: a first group of focal lens elements 3A′ mounted stationary relative to the image detecting array 3A; a second group of lens elements 3B2, functioning as a focal lens assembly, movably mounted along the optical bench 3D in front of the first group of stationary lens elements 3A1; and a third group of lens elements 3B1, functioning as a zoom lens assembly, movably mounted between the second group of focal lens elements and the first group of stationary focal lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 back and forth in response to a first set of control signals generated by the camera control computer, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis with translator in response to a first set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22, while the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 remain stationary. For zoom control (i.e. variable focal length control), the focal lens elements in the third group 3B1 are typically moved relative to each other with translator 3C1 in response to a second set of control signals 3E1 generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken in any particular illustrative embodiment, an IFD module with variable focus variable focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Fourth Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 3A

The fourth illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3A, indicated by reference numeral 50D, is shown in FIG. 3F1 as comprising: an image formation and detection module 3″ having an imaging subsystem 3B″ with a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view, and a linear array of photo-electronic detectors 3A realized using CCD technology (e.g. Piranha Model Nos. CT-P4, or CL-P4 High-Speed CCD Line Scan Camera, from Dalsa, Inc. USA—http://www.dalsa.com) for detecting 1-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 3B″; a FOV folding mirror 9 for folding the FOV of the imaging subsystem in the direction of imaging; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A, 7B; and a pair of planar laser beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B for folding the planes of the planar laser illumination beams produced by the pair of planar illumination arrays 6A and 6B, in a direction that is coplanar with the plane of the FOV of the image formation and detection module during object illumination and image detection operations.

As shown in FIG. 3G2, the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3F1 comprises: planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, each having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules 11A through 11F, and each planar laser illumination module being driven by a VLD driver circuit 18 embodying a digitally-programmable potentiometer (e.g. 763 as shown in FIG. 1I15D for current control purposes) and a microcontroller 764 being provided for controlling the output optical power thereof; a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) and ideally integrated therewith, for optically combining the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and projecting the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated; linear-type image formation and detection module 3″; a FOV folding mirror 9 for folding the FOV of the imaging subsystem in the direction of imaging; a pair of planar laser illumination beam folding mirrors 37A and 37B, for folding the planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B in the imaging direction; an image frame grabber 19 operably connected to the linear-type image formation and detection module 3″, for accessing 1-D images (i.e. 1-D digital image data sets) therefrom and building a 2-D digital image of the object being illuminated by the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B; an image data buffer (e.g. VRAM) 20 for buffering 2-D images received from the image frame grabber 19; an image processing computer 21, operably connected to the image data buffer 20, for carrying out image processing algorithms (including bar code symbol decoding algorithms) and operators on digital images stored within the image data buffer 20; and a camera control computer 22 operably connected to the various components within the system for controlling the operation thereof in an orchestrated manner.

FIG. 3F3 illustrates in greater detail the structure of the IFD module 3″ used in the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 3F1. As shown, the IFD module 3″ comprises a variable focus variable focal length imaging subsystem 3B″ and a 1-D image detecting array 3A mounted along an optical bench 3D contained within a common lens barrel (not shown). In general, the imaging subsystem 3B′ comprises: a first group of focal lens elements 3A1 mounted stationary relative to the image detecting array 3A; a second group of lens elements 3B2, functioning as a focal lens assembly, movably mounted along the optical bench in front of the first group of stationary lens elements 3A1; and a third group of lens elements 3B1, functioning as a zoom lens assembly, movably mounted between the second group of focal lens elements and the first group of stationary focal lens elements 3A1. In a non-customized application, focal distance control can also be provided by moving the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 back and forth with translator 3C2 in response to a first set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22, while the 1-D image detecting array 3A remains stationary. Alternatively, focal distance control can be provided by moving the 1-D image detecting array 3A back and forth along the optical axis in response to a first set of control signals 3E2 generated by the camera control computer 22, while the second group of focal lens elements 3B2 remain stationary. For zoom control (i.e. variable focal length control), the focal lens elements in the third group 3B1 are typically moved relative to each other with translator 3C1 in response to a second set of control signals 3C1 generated by the camera control computer 22. Regardless of the approach taken in any particular illustrative embodiment, an IFD module with variable focus variable focal length imaging can be realized in a variety of ways, each being embraced by the spirit of the present invention.

Applications for the Fifth Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention and the Illustrative Embodiments Thereof

As the PLIIM-based systems shown in FIGS. 3A through 3F3 employ an IFD module having a linear image detecting array and an imaging subsystem having variable focal length (zoom) and variable focus (i.e. focal distance) control mechanisms, such PLIIM-based systems are good candidates for use in the conveyor top scanner application shown in FIG. 3G, as variations in target object distance can be up to a meter or more (from the imaging subsystem) and the imaging subsystem provided therein can easily accommodate such object distance parameter variations during object illumination and imaging operations. Also, by adding dynamic focusing functionality to the imaging subsystem of any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A through 3E3, the resulting PLIIM-based system will become appropriate for the conveyor side scanning application also shown in FIG. 3G, where the demands on the depth of field and variable focus or dynamic focus requirements are greater compared to a conveyor top scanner application.

Another Generalized Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention

Another generalized embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of the present invention, indicated by reference numeral 80, is illustrated in FIG. 4A. As shown therein, the PLIIM-based system 80 comprises: a housing 2 of compact construction; an area (i.e. 2-dimensional) type image formation and detection (IFD) module 55′ including a 2-D electronic image detection array 55A, an area (2-D) imaging subsystem (LIS) 55B″ having a variable focal length, a variable focal distance, and a variable field of view (FOV) of 3-D spatial extent, for forming a 1-D image of an illuminated object located within the fixed focal distance and FOV thereof and projected onto the 2-D image detection array 55A, so that the 2-D image detection array 55A can electronically detect the image formed thereon and automatically produce a digital image data set 5 representative of the detected image for subsequent image processing; and a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B, each mounted on opposite sides of the IFD module 55″, for producing first and second planes of laser beam illumination 7A and 7B such that the field of view of the image formation and detection module 55″ is disposed substantially coplanar with the planes of the first and second planar laser illumination beams during object illumination and image detection operations carried out by the PLIIM system. While possible, this system configuration would be difficult to use when packages are moving by on a high-speed conveyor belt, as the planar laser illumination beams would have to sweep across the package very quickly to avoid blurring of the acquired images due to the motion of the package while the image is being acquired.

In accordance with the present invention, the planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B, the linear image formation and detection module 55″, and any stationary FOV folding mirror employed in any configuration of this generalized system embodiment, are fixedly mounted on an optical bench or chassis so as to prevent any relative motion (which might be caused by vibration or temperature changes) between: (i) the image forming optics (e.g. imaging lens) within the image formation and detection module 55″ and any stationary FOV folding mirror employed therewith, and (ii) each planar laser illumination module (i.e. VLD/cylindrical lens assembly) and each PLIB folding/sweeping mirror employed in the PLIIM-based system configuration. Preferably, the chassis assembly should provide for easy and secure alignment of all optical components employed in the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B as well as the image formation and detection module 55″, as well as be easy to manufacture, service and repair. Also, this generalized PLIIM-based system embodiment employs the general “planar laser illumination” and “focus beam at farthest object distance (FBAFOD)” principles described above. Various illustrative embodiments of this generalized PLIIM system will be described below.

First Illustrative Embodiment of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Shown in FIG. 6A

The first illustrative embodiment of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 4A, indicated by reference numeral 80A, is shown in FIGS. 4B1 and 4B2 as comprising: an area-type image formation and detection module 55″ having an imaging subsystem 55B″ with a variable focal length imaging lens, a variable focal distance and a variable field of view, and an area (2-D) array of photo-electronic detectors 55A realized using CCD technology (e.g. the Sony ICX085AL Progressive Scan CCD Image Sensor with Square Pixels for B/W Cameras, or the Kodak KAF-4202 Series 2032(H)×2044(V) Full-Frame CCD Image Sensor) for detecting 2-D line images formed thereon by the imaging subsystem 55A; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B for producing first and second planar laser illumination beams 7A and 7B; and a pair of PLIB folding/sweeping mirrors 57A and 57B, arranged in relation to the planar laser illumination arrays 6A and 6B, respectively, such that the planar laser illumination beams are folded and swept so that the planar laser illumination beams are disposed substantially coplanar with a section of the FOV of image formation and detection module during object illumination and image detection operations carried out by the PLIIM-based system.

Exemplary Realization of the PLIIM-Based System of the Present Invention Wherein a Pair of Coplanar Laser Illumination Beams are Controllably Steered About A 3-D Scanning Region

In FIGS. 5A through 5D, there is shown an exemplary realization of the PLIIM-based system of FIG. 4A. As shown, PLIIM-based system 25″ comprises: an image formation and detection module 55′; a stationary field of view (FOV) folding mirror 9 for folding and projecting the FOV through a 3-D scanning region; a pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B; and pair of PLIB folding/sweeping mirrors 57A and 57B for folding and sweeping the planar laser illumination beams so that the optical paths of these planar laser illumination beams are oriented in an imaging direction that is coplanar with a section of the field of view of the image formation and detection module 55″ as the planar laser illumination beams are swept through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and imaging operations. As shown in FIG. 5D, the FOV of the area-type image formation and detection (IFD) module 55″ is folded by the stationary FOV folding mirror 9 and projected downwardly through a 3-D scanning region. The planar laser illumination beams produced from the planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) 6A and 6B are folded and swept by mirror 57A and 57B so that the optical paths of these planar laser illumination beams are oriented in a direction that is coplanar with a section of the FOV of the image formation and detection module as the planar laser illumination beams are swept through the 3-D scanning region during object illumination and imaging operations. In the illustrative embodiment, PLIIM-based system 25″ is capable of auto-zoom and auto-focus operations, and producing images having constant dpi resolution regardless of whether the images are of tall packages moving on a conveyor belt structure or objects having height values close to the surface height of the conveyor belt structure.

As shown in FIG. 5A, a stationary cylindrical lens array 299 is mounted in front of each PLIA (6A, 6B) provided within the PLIIM-based subsystem 25″. The function performed by cylindrical lens array 299 is to optically combine the individual PLIB components produced from the PLIMs constituting the PLIA, and project the combined PLIB components onto points along the surface of the object being illuminated. By virtue of this inventive feature, each point on the object surface being imaged will be illuminated by different sources of laser illumination located at different points in space (i.e. spatially coherent-reduced laser illumination), thereby reducing the RMS power of speckle-pattern noise observable at the linear image detection array of the PLIIM-based subsystem.

In order that PLLIM-based subsystem 25″ can be readily interfaced to and integrated (e.g. embedded) within various types of computer-based systems, as shown herein, subsystem 25″ further comprises an I/O subsystem 500 operably connected to camera control computer 22 and image processing computer 21, and a network controller 501 for enabling high-speed data communication with other computers in a local or wide area network using packet-based networking protocols (e.g. Ethernet, AppleTalk, etc.) well know in the art.

Application of Despeckling Methods and Mechanisms of Present Invention to Area-Type Pliim-Based Imaging Systems and Devices

Notably, in any area-type PLIIM-based system describe above, a mechanism is provided to automatically sweep the PLIB through the 3-D field of view (FOV) of the system during each image capture period. In such systems, the photo-integration time period associated with each row of image detection elements in its 2D image detection array, should be relatively short in relation to the total time duration of each image capture period associated with the entire 2-D image detection array. This ensures that all rows of linear image data will be faithfully captured and buffered, without creating motion blur and other artifacts.

Any of the generalized methods of despeckling described above can be applied to an area-type PLIIM-based system. Any wavefront control techniques applied to the PLIB in connection with the realization of a particular despeckling technique described herein will enable time and (possibly a little spatial) averaging across each row of image detection elements (in the area image detection array) which corresponds to each linear image captured by the PLIB as it is being swept over the object surface within the 3-D FOV of the PLIIM-based system. In turn, this will enable a reduction in speckle-pattern noise along the horizontal direction (i.e. width dimension) of the image detection elements in the area image detection array.

Also, vertically-directed sweeping action of the PLIB over the object surface during each image capture period will produce temporally and spatially varying speckle noise pattern elements along that direction which can be both temporally and spatially averaged to a certain degree during each photo-integration time period of the area-type PLIIM-based imaging system, thereby helping to reduce the RMS power of speckle-pattern noise observed at the area image detection array in the PLIIM-based imaging system. By applying the above teachings, each and every area-type PLIIM-based imaging system can benefit from the generalized despeckling methods of the present invention.

First Illustrative Embodiment of the Unitary Object Identification and Attribute Acquisition System of the Present Invention Embodying a PLIIM-Based Object Identification Subsystem and a LADAR-Based Imaging Detecting and Dimensioning Subsystem

Referring now to FIGS. 6A through 8, a unitary object identification and attribute acquisition system of the first illustrated embodiment 120, installed above a conveyor belt structure in a tunnel system configuration, will now be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the unitary system 120 of the present invention comprises an integration of subsystems, contained within a single housing of compact construction supported above the conveyor belt of a high-speed conveyor subsystem 121, by way of a support frame or like structure. In the illustrative embodiment, the conveyor subsystem 121 has a conveyor belt width of at least 48 inches to support one or more package transport lanes along the conveyor belt. As shown in FIG. 10, the unitary system comprises four primary subsystem components, namely: (1) a LADAR-based package imaging, detecting and dimensioning subsystem 122 capable of collecting range data from objects on the conveyor belt using a pair of amplitude-modulated (AM) multi-wavelength (i.e. containing visible and IR spectral components) laser scanning beams projected at different angular spacings as taught in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/327,756 filed Jun. 7, 1999, supra, and International PCT Application No. PCT/US00/15624 filed Jun. 7, 2000, incorporated herein by reference, and now published as WIPO Publication No. WO 00/75856 A1, on Dec. 14, 2000; (2) a PLIIM-based bar code symbol reading (i.e. object identification) subsystem 25′, as shown in FIGS. 3E4 through 3E6, for producing a 3-D scanning volume above the conveyor belt, for scanning bar codes on packages transported therealong; (3) an input/output subsystem 127 for managing the data inputs to and data outputs from the unitary system, including data inputs from subsystem 25′; (4) a data management computer 129 with a graphical user interface (GUI) 130, for realizing a data element queuing, handling and processing subsystem 131, as well as other data and system management functions; and (5) and a network controller 132, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127, for connecting the system 120 to the local area network (LAN) associated with the tunnel-based system, as well as other packet-based data communication networks supporting various network protocols (e.g. Ethernet, IP, etc).

In addition, an optical fiber (FO) network controller 133 may be provided within the unitary system 120 for supporting the Ethernet or other network protocol over a fiber optical cable communication medium. The advantage of fiber optical cable is that it can be run thousands of feet within and about an industrial work environment while supporting high information transfer rates (required for image lift and transfer operations) without information loss. The fiber-optic data communication interface supported by FO network controller 133 enables the tunnel-based system of FIG. 9 to be installed thousands of feet away from a keying station in a package routing hub (i.e. center), where lifted digital images and OCR (or barcode) data are simultaneously displayed on the display of a computer work station. Each bar code and/or OCR image processed by tunnel system 120 is indexed in terms of a probabilistic reliability measure, and if the measure falls below a predetermined threshold, then the lifted image and bar code and/or OCR data are simultaneously displayed for a human “key” operator to verify and correct file data, if necessary.

In the illustrative embodiment, the data management computer 129 employed in the object identification and attribute acquisition system 120 is realized as complete micro-computing system running operating system (OS) software (e.g. Microsoft NT, Unix, Solaris, Linux, or the like), and providing full support various protocols, including: Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP); File Transfer Protocol (FTP); HyperText Transport Protocol (HTTP); Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP); and Simple Message Transport Protocol (SMTP). The function of these protocols in the object identification and attribute acquisition system 120, and networks built using the same, will be described in detail hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 30A through 30D2.

While a LADAR-based package imaging, detecting and dimensioning/profiling (i.e. LDIP) subsystem 122 is shown embodied within system 120, it is understood that other types of package imaging, detecting and dimensioning subsystems based on non-LADAR height/range data acquisition techniques (e.g. using structured laser illumination, CCD-imaging, and triangulation measurement techniques) may be used to realize the unitary package identification and attribute-acquisition system of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 13A, the LADAR-based object imaging, detecting and dimensioning/profiling (LDIP) subsystem 122 comprises an integration of subsystems, namely: an object velocity measurement subsystem 123, for measuring the velocity of transported packages by analyzing range-based height data maps generated by the different angularly displaced AM laser scanning beams of the subsystem, using the inventive methods disclosed in International PCT Application No. PCT/US00/15624 filed Dec. 7, 2000, supra; automatic package detection and tracking subsystem comprising (i) a package-in-the-tunnel (PITT) indication (i.e. detection) subsystem 125, for automatically detecting the presence of each package moving through the scanning volume by reflecting a portion of one of the laser scanning beams across the width of the conveyor belt in a retro-reflective manner and then analyzing the return signal using first derivative and thresholding techniques disclosed in International PCT Application No. PCT/US00/15624 filed Dec. 7, 2000, and (ii) a package-out-of-the-tunnel (POOT) indication (i.e. detection) subsystem 125, integrated within subsystem 122, realized using, for example, predictive techniques based on the output of the PITT indication subsystem 125, for automatically detecting the presence of packages moving out of the scanning volume; and a package (x-y) height, width and length (H/W/L) dimensioning (or profiling) subsystem 124, integrated within subsystem 122, for producing x,y,z profile data sets for detected packages, referenced against one or more coordinate reference systems symbolically embedded within subsystem 122, and/or unitary system 120.

The primary function of LDIP subsystem 122 is to measure dimensional (including profile) characteristics of objects (e.g. packages) passing through the scanning volume, and produce a package dimension data element for each dimensioned/profiled package. The primary function of PLIIM-based subsystem 25′ is to automatically identify dimensioned/profiled packages by reading bar code symbols on thereon and produce a package identification data element representative of each identified package. The primary function of the I/O subsystem 127 is to transport package dimension data elements and package identification data elements to the data element queuing, handling and processing subsystem 131 for automatic linking (i.e. matching) operations.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 13A, the primary function of the data element queuing, handling and processing subsystem 131 in the illustrative is to automatically link (i.e. match) each package dimension data element with its corresponding package identification data element, and to transport such data element pairs to an appropriate host system for subsequent use (e.g. package routing subsystems, cost-recovery subsystems, etc.). As unitary system 120 has application beyond packages and parcels, and in fact, can be used in connection with virtually any type of object having an identity and attribute characteristics, it becomes important to understand that the data element queuing, handling and processing subsystem 131 of the present invention has a much broader role to play during the operation of the unitary system 120. As will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 10A, broader function to be performed by subsystem 130 is to automatically link object identity data elements with object attribute data elements, and to transport these linked data element sets to host systems, databases, and other systems adapted to use such correlated data.

By virtue of subsystem 25′ and LDIP subsystem 122 being embodied within a single housing 121, an ultra-compact device is provided that can automatically detect, track, identify, acquire attributes (e.g. dimensions/profile characteristics) and link identity and attribute data elements associated with packages moving along a conveyor structure without requiring the use of any external peripheral input devices, such as tachometers, light-curtains, etc.

In FIGS. 6A through 6C, there is shown an alternative system housing design 540 for use with the unitary object identification and attribute acquisition system of the present invention. As shown, the housing 540 has the same light transmission apertures of the housing design, but has no housing panels disposed about the light transmission apertures 541A, 541B and 542, through which planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs) and the field of view (FOV) of the PLIIM-based subsystem extend, respectively. This feature of the present invention provides a region of space (i.e. housing recess) into which an optional device (not shown) can be mounted for carrying out a speckle-noise reduction solution within a compact box that fits within said housing recess, in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Light transmission aperture 543 enables the AM laser beams 167A/167B from the LDIP subsystem 122 to project out from the housing. FIGS. 6B and 6C provide different perspective views of this alternative housing design.

In FIG. 7, the system architecture of the unitary (PLIIM-based) object identification and attribute acquisition system 120 is shown in greater detail. As shown therein, the LDIP subsystem 122 embodied therein comprises: a Real-Time Object (e.g. Package) Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550; and an LDIP Package Dimensioner 551 provided with an integrated object (e.g. package) velocity deletion module that computes the velocity of transported packages based on package range (i.e. height) data maps produced by the front end of the LDIP subsystem 122, as taught in greater detail in copending U.S. Application No. US application Ser. No. 09/327,756 filed Jun. 7, 1999, and International Application No. PCT/US00/15624, filed Jun. 7, 2000, published by WIPO on Dec. 14, 2000 under WIPO No. WO 00/75856 incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The function of Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 is to automatically process raw data received by the LDIP subsystem 122 and generate, as output, time-stamped data sets that are transmitted to the camera control computer 22. In turn, the camera control computer 22 automatically processes the received time-stamped data sets and generates real-time camera control signals that drive the focus and zoom lens group translators within a high-speed auto-focus/auto-zoom digital camera subsystem (i.e. the IFD module) 3″ so that the image grabber 19 employed therein automatically captures digital images having (1) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (2) significantly reduced speckle-noise levels, and (3) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (dpi) independent of package height or velocity. These digital images are then provided to the image processing computer 21 for various types of image processing described in detail hereinabove.

FIG. 8 sets forth a flow chart describing the primary data processing operations that are carried out by the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 within LDIP subsystem 122 employed in the PLIIM-based system 120.

As illustrated at Block A in FIG. 8, a row of raw range data collected by the LDIP subsystem 122 is sampled every 5 milliseconds, and time-stamped when received by the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550.

As indicated at Block B, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 converts the raw data set into range profile data R=f (int. phase), referenced with respect to a polar coordinate system symbolically embedded in the LDIP subsystem 122, as shown in FIG. 17.

At Block C, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 uses geometric transformations (described at Block C) to convert the range profile data set R[i] into a height profile data set h[i] and a position data set x[i].

At Block D, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 obtains current package height data values by finding the prevailing height using package edge detection without filtering.

At Block E, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 finds the coordinates of the left and right package edges (LPE, RPE) by searching for the closest coordinates from the edges of the conveyor belt (X_(a), X_(b)) towards the center thereof.

At Block F, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 analyzes the data values {R(nT)} and determines the X coordinate position range X_(Δ1), X_(Δ2) (measured in R global) where the range intensity changes (i) within the spatial bounds (X_(LPE), X_(RPE)), and (ii) beyond predetermined range intensity data thresholds.

At Block G in FIG. 8, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 creates a time-stamped data set {X_(LPE), h, X_(RPE), V_(B), nT} by assembling the following six (6) information elements, namely: the coordinate of the left package edge (LPE); the current height value of the package (h); the coordinate of the right package edge (RPE); X coordinate subrange where height values exhibit maximum intensity changes and the height values within said subrange; package velocity (V_(b)); and the time-stamp (nT). Notably, the belt/package velocity measure V_(b) is computed by the LDIP Package Dimensioner 551 within LDIP Subsystem 122, and employs integrated velocity detection techniques described in copending U.S. Application No. US application Ser. No. 09/327,756 filed Jun. 7, 1999, and International Application No. PCT/US00/15624, filed Jun. 7, 2000, published by WIPO on Dec. 14, 2000 under WIPO No. WO 00/75856 incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Thereafter, at Block H in FIG. 8, the Real-Time Package Height Profiling And Edge Detection Processing Module 550 transmits the assembled (hextuple) data set to the camera control computer 22 for processing and subsequent generation of real-time camera control signals that are transmitted to the Auto-Focus/Auto-Zoom Digital Camera Subsystem 3″. These operations will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

Notably, the processes and operations specified in FIG. 8 are carried out for each sampled row of raw data collected by the LDIP subsystem 122, and therefore, do not rely on the results computed by the computational-based package dimensioning processes carried out in the LDIP subsystem 122, described in great detail in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/327,756 filed Jun. 7, 1999, and incorporated herein reference in its entirety. This inventive feature enables ultra-fast response time during control of the camera subsystem.

As will be described in greater detail hereinafter, the camera control computer 22 controls the auto-focus/auto-zoom digital camera subsystem 3″ in an intelligent manner using a real-time camera control process described in WIPO Publication No. WO 02/043195, supra. A particularly important inventive feature of this camera process is that it only needs to operate on one data set at time a time, obtained from the LDIP Subsystem 122, in order to perform its complex array of functions.

Second Illustrative Embodiment of the Unitary Object Identification and Attribute Acquisition System of the Present Invention Embodying A PLIIM-Based Subsystem of the Present Invention and a LADAR-Based Imaging, Detecting and Dimensioning/Profiling (LDIP) Subsystem

As shown in FIG. 9, the unitary PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition system 140 comprises an integration of subsystems, contained within a single housing of compact construction supported above the conveyor belt of a high-speed conveyor subsystem 121, by way of a support frame or like structure. In the illustrative embodiment, the conveyor subsystem 141 has a conveyor belt width of at least 48 inches to support one or more package transport lanes along the conveyor belt. As shown in FIG. 9, the unitary PLIIM-based system 140 comprises four primary subsystem components, namely: a LADAR-based (i.e. LIDAR-based) object imaging, detecting and dimensioning subsystem 122 capable of collecting range data from objects (e.g. packages) on the conveyor belt using a pair of multi-wavelength (i.e. containing visible and IR spectral components) laser scanning beams projected at different angular spacing as taught in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/327,756 filed Jun. 7, 1999, supra, and International PCT Application No. PCT/US00/15624 filed Dec. 7, 2000, incorporated herein by reference; a PLIIM-based bar code symbol reading subsystem 25″, shown in FIGS. 5A through 5D, for producing a 3-D scanning volume above the conveyor belt, for scanning bar codes on packages transported therealong; an input/output subsystem 127 for managing the inputs to and outputs from the unitary system; and a network controller 132 for connecting to a local or wide area IP network, and supporting one or more networking protocols, such as, for example, Ethernet, AppleTalk, etc.

Tunnel-Type Object Identification and Attribute Acquisition System of the Present Invention

The PLIIM-based object identification and attribute acquisition systems and subsystems described hereinabove can be configured as building blocks to build more complex, more robust systems and networks designed for use in diverse types of object identification and attribute acquisition and management applications.

In FIG. 10, there is shown a four-sided tunnel-type object identification and attribute acquisition system 570 that has been constructed by (i) arranging, about a high-speed package conveyor belt subsystem 571, four PLIIM-based package identification and attribute acquisition (PID) units 120 of the type shown in FIGS. 13A through 26, and (ii) integrating these PID units within a high-speed data communications network 572 having a suitable network topology and configuration, as illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 11 and 12.

In this illustrative tunnel-type system, only the top PID unit 120 includes an LDIP subsystem 122 for object detection, tracking, velocity-detection and dimensioning/profiling functions, as this PID unit functions as a master PID unit within the tunnel system 570, whereas the side and bottom PID units 120 are not provided with a LDIP subsystem 122 and function as slave PID units. As such, the side and bottom PID units 120′ are programmed to receive object dimension data (e.g. height, length and width coordinates) from the master PID unit 120 on a real-time basis, and automatically convert (i.e. transform) these object dimension coordinates into their local coordinate reference frames in order to use the same to dynamically control the zoom and focus parameters of the camera subsystems employed in the tunnel system. This centralized method of object dimensioning offers numerous advantages over prior art systems and will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 30-1 through 32B.

As shown in FIG. 10, the camera field of view (FOV) of the bottom PID unit 120′ of the tunnel system 570 is arranged to view packages through a small gap 573 provided between conveyor belt sections 571A and 571B. Notably, this arrangement is permissible by virtue of the fact that the camera's FOV and its coplanar PLIB jointly have thickness dimensions on the order of millimeters. As shown in FIG. 28, all of the PID units in the tunnel system are operably connected to an Ethernet control hub 575 (ideally contained in one of the slave PID units) associated with a local area network (LAN) embodied within the tunnel system. As shown, an external tachometer (i.e. encoder) 576 connected to the conveyor belt 571 provides tachometer input signals to each slave unit 120 and master unit 120, as a backup to the integrated object velocity detector provided within the LDIP subsystem 122. This is an optional feature which may have advantages in environments where, for example, the belt speed fluctuates frequently and by significant amounts in the case of conveyor-enabled tunnel systems.

FIG. 11 shows the tunnel-based system of FIG. 10 embedded within a first-type LAN having an Ethernet control hub 575, for communicating data packets to control the operation of units 120 in the LAN, but not for transferring camera data (e.g. 80 megabytes/sec) generated within each PID unit 120, 120′.

FIG. 12 shows the tunnel system of FIG. 10 embedded within a second-type LAN having an Ethernet control hub 575, an Ethernet data switch 577, and an encoder 576. The function of the Ethernet data switch 577 is to transfer data packets relating to camera data output, whereas the function of control hub 575 is the same as in the tunnel network system configuration of FIG. 11. The advantages of using the tunnel network configuration of FIG. 12 is that camera data can be transferred over the LAN, and when using fiber optical (FO) cable, camera data can be transferred over very long distances using FO-cable and the Ethernet networking protocol (i.e. “Ethernet over fiber”). As discussed hereinabove, the advantage of using the Ethernet protocol over fiber optical cable is that a “keying” workstation 580 can be located thousands of feet away from the physical location of the tunnel system 570, e.g. somewhere within a package routing facility, without compromising camera data integrity due to transmission loss and/or errors.

Real-Time Object Coordinate Data Driven Method of Camera Zoom And Focus Control in Accordance with the Principles of the Present Invention

In FIGS. 13A through 13B, CCD camera-based tunnel system 570 of FIG. 10 is schematically illustrated employing a real-time method of automatic camera zoom and focus control in accordance with the principles of the present invention. As will be described in greater detail below, this real-time method is driven by object coordinate data and involves (i) dimensioning packages in a global coordinate reference system, (ii) producing object (e.g. package) coordinate data referenced to said global coordinate reference system, and (iii) distributing said object coordinate data to local coordinate references frames in the system for conversion of said object coordinate data to local coordinate reference frames and subsequent use automatic camera zoom and focus control operations upon said packages. This method of the present invention will now be described in greater detail below using the four-sided tunnel-based system 570 of FIG. 10, described above.

As shown in FIGS. 13A through 13B, the four-sided tunnel-type camera-based object identification and attribute acquisition system of FIG. 10 comprises: a single master PID unit 120 embodying a LDIP subsystem 122, mounted above the conveyor belt structure 571; three slave PID units 120′, 120′ and 120′, mounted on the sides and bottom of the conveyor belt; and a high-speed data communications network 572 supporting a network protocol such as, for example, Ethernet protocol, and enabling high-speed packet-type data communications among the four PID units within the system. As shown, each PID unit is connected to the network communication medium of the network through its network controller 132 (133) in a manner well known in the computer networking arts.

As schematically illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 14, local coordinate reference systems are symbolically embodied within each of the PID units deployed in the tunnel-type system of FIG. 10, namely: local coordinate reference system R_(local0) symbolically embodied within the master PID unit 120; local coordinate reference system R_(local1) symbolically embodied within the first side PID unit 120′; local coordinate reference system R_(local2) symbolically embodied within the second side PID unit 120′; and local coordinate reference system R_(local3) symbolically embodied within the bottom PID unit 120′. In turn, each of these local coordinate reference systems is “referenced” with respect to a global coordinate reference system R_(global) symbolically embodied within the conveyor belt structure. Object coordinate information specified (by vectors) in the global coordinate reference system can be readily converted to object coordinate information specified in any local coordinate reference system by way of a homogeneous transformation (HG) constructed for the global and the particular local coordinate reference system. Each homogeneous transformation can be constructed by specifying the point of origin and orientation of the x,y,z axes of the local coordinate reference system with respect to the point of origin and orientation of the x,y,z axes of the global coordinate reference system. Such details on homogeneous transformations are well known in the art.

To facilitate construction of each such homogeneous transformation between a particular local coordinate reference system (symbolically embedded within a particular slave PID unit 120′) and the global coordinate reference system (symbolically embedded within the master PID unit 120), the present invention further provides a novel method of and apparatus for measuring, in the field, the pitch and yaw angles of each slave PID unit 120′ in the tunnel system, as well as the elevation (i.e. height) of the PID unit, that is relative to the local coordinate reference frame symbolically embedded within the local PID unit. In the illustrative embodiment, shown in FIG. 14A, such apparatus is realized in the form of two different angle-measurement (e.g. protractor) devices 2500A and 2500B integrated within the structure of each slave and master PID housing and the support structure provided to support the same within the tunnel system. The purpose of such apparatus is to enable the taking of such field measurements (i.e. angle and height readings) so that the precise coordinate location of each local coordinate reference frame (symbolically embedded within each PID unit) can be precisely determined, relative to the master PID unit 120. Such coordinate information is then used to construct a set of “homogeneous transformations” which are used to convert globally acquired package dimension data at each local coordinate frame, into locally referenced object dimension data. In the illustrative embodiment, the master PID unit 120 is provided with an LDIP subsystem 122 for acquiring object dimension information on a real-time basis, and such information is broadcasted to each of the slave PID units 120′ employed within the tunnel system. By providing such object dimension information to each PID unit in the system, and converting such information to the local coordinate reference system of each such PID unit, the optical parameters of the camera subsystem within each local PID unit are accurately controlled by its camera control computer 22 using such locally-referenced package dimension information, as will be described in greater detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 14A, each angle measurement device 2500A and 2500B is integrated into the structure of the PID unit 120′ (120) by providing a pointer or indicating structure (e.g. arrow) 2501A (2501B) on the surface of the housing of the PID unit, while mounting angle-measurement indicator 2503A (2503A) on the corresponding support structure 2504A (2400B) used to support the housing above the conveyor belt of the tunnel system. With this arrangement, to read the pitch or yaw angle, the technician only needs to see where the pointer 2501A (or 2501B) points against the angle-measurement indicator 2503A (2503B), and then visually determine the angle measure at that location which is the angle measurement to be recorded for the particular PID unit under analysis. As the position and orientation of each angle-measurement indicator 2503A (2503B) will be precisely mounted (e.g. welded) in place relative to the entire support system associated with the tunnel system, PID unit angle readings made against these indicators will be highly accurate and utilizable in computing the homogeneous transformations (e.g. during the set-up and calibration stage) and carried out at each slave PID unit 120′ and possibly the master PID unit 120 if the LDIP subsystem 122 is not located within the master PID unit, which may be the case in some tunnel installations. To measure the elevation of each PID unit 120′ (or 120), an arrow-like pointer 2501C is provided on the PID unit housing and is read against an elevation indicator 2503C mounted on one of the support structures.

Once the PID units have been installed within a given tunnel system, such information must be ascertained to (i) properly construct the homogeneous transformation expression between each local coordinate reference system and the global coordinate reference system, and (ii) subsequently program this mathematical construction within camera control computer 22 within each PID unit 120 (120′). Preferably, a PID unit support framework installed about the conveyor belt structure, can be used in the tunnel system to simplify installation and configuration of the PID units at particular predetermined locations and orientations required by the scanning application at hand. In accordance with such a method, the predetermined location and orientation position of each PID unit can be premarked or bar coded. Then, once a particular PID unit 120′ has been installed, the location/orientation information of the PID unit can be quickly read in the field and programmed into the camera control computer 22 of each PID unit so that its homogeneous transformation (HG) expression can be readily constructed and programmed into the camera control compute for use during tunnel system operation. Notably, a hand-held bar code symbol reader, operably connected to the master PID unit, can be used in the field to quickly and accurately collect such unit position/orientation information (e.g. by reading bar code symbols pre-encoded with unit position/orientation information) and transmit the same to the master PID unit 120.

In addition, FIGS. 13A through 13B illustrates that the LDIP subsystem 122 within the master unit 120 generates (i) package height, width, and length coordinate data and (ii) velocity data, referenced with respect to the global coordinate reference system R_(global). These package dimension data elements are transmitted to each slave PID unit 120′ on the data communication network, and once received, its camera control computer 22 converts there values into package height, width, and length coordinates referenced to its local coordinate reference system using its preprogrammable homogeneous transformation. The camera control computer 22 in each slave PID unit 120 uses the converted object dimension coordinates to generate real-time camera control signals which automatically drive its camera's automatic zoom and focus imaging optics in an intelligent, real-time manner in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The “object identification” data elements generated by the slave PID unit are automatically transmitted to the master PID unit 120 for time-stamping, queuing, and processing to ensure accurate object identity and object attribute (e.g. dimension/profile) data element linking operations in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the object-coordinate driven camera control method of the present invention will now be described in detail.

As indicated at Block A in FIG. 15A, Step A of the camera control method involves the master PID unit (with LDIP subsystem 122) generating an object dimension data element (e.g. containing height, width, length and velocity data {H, W, L, V}_(G)) for each object transported through tunnel system, and then using the system's data communications network, to transmit such object dimension data to each slave PID unit downstream the conveyor belt. Preferably, the coordinate information contained in each object dimension data element is referenced with respect to global coordinate reference system R_(global), although it is understood that the local coordinate reference frame of the master PID unit may also be used as a central coordinate reference system in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

As indicated at Block B in FIG. 15A, Step B of the camera control method involves each slave unit receiving the transmitted object height, width and length data {H, W, L, V}G and converting this coordinate information into the slave unit's local coordinate reference system R_(local1), i{H, W, L, V}_(i).

As indicated at Block C in FIG. 15A, Step C of the camera control method involves the camera control computer in each slave unit using the converted object height, width, length data {H, W, L}_(i) and package velocity data to generate camera control signals for driving the camera subsystem in the slave unit to zoom and focus in on the transported package as it moves by the slave unit, while ensuring that captured images having substantially constant d.p.i. resolution and 1:1 aspect ratio.

As indicated at Block D in FIG. 15B, Step D of the camera control method involves each slave unit capturing images acquired by its intelligently controlled camera subsystem, buffering the same, and processing the images so as to decode bar code symbol identifiers represented in said images, and/or to perform optical character recognition (OCR) thereupon.

As indicated at Block E in FIG. 32B, Step E of the camera control method involves the slave unit, which decoded a bar code symbol in a processed image, to automatically transmit an object identification data element (containing symbol character data representative of the decoded bar code symbol) to the master unit (or other designated system control unit employing data element management functionalities) for object data element processing.

As indicated at Block F in FIG. 15B, Step F of the camera control method involves the master unit time-stamping each received object identification data element, placing said data element in a data queue, and processing object identification data elements and time-stamped package dimension data elements in said queue so as to link each object identification data element with one said corresponding object dimension data element (i.e. object attribute data element).

The real-time camera zoom and focus control process described above has the advantage of requiring on only one LDIP object detection, tracking and dimensioning/profiling subsystem 122, yet enabling (i) intelligent zoom and focus control within each camera subsystem in the system, and (ii) precise cropping of “regions of interest” (ROI) in captured images. Such inventive features enable intelligent filtering and processing of image data streams and thus substantially reduce data processing requirements in the system.

Bioptical PLIIM-Based Product Dimensioning, Analysis And Identification System of the First Illustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

The numerous types of PLIIM-based camera systems disclosed hereinabove can be used as stand-alone devices, as well as components within resultant systems designed to carry out particular functions.

As shown in FIGS. 16A through 16C, a pair of PLIIM-based package identification (PID) systems 25′ of FIGS. 3E4 through 3E8 are modified and arranged within a compact POS housing 581 having bottom and side light transmission apertures 582 and 583 (beneath bottom and side imaging windows 584 and 585, respectively), to produce a bioptical PLIIM-based product identification, dimensioning and analysis (PIDA) system 580 according to a first illustrative embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 16C, the bioptical PIDA system 580 comprises: a bottom PLIIM-based unit 586A mounted within the bottom portion of the housing 581; a side PLIIM-based unit 586B mounted within the side portion of the housing 581; an electronic product weigh scale 587, mounted beneath the bottom PLIIM-based unit 587A, in a conventional manner; and a local data communication network 588, mounted within the housing, and establishing a high-speed data communication link between the bottom and side units 586A and 586B, and the electronic weigh scale 587, and a host computer system (e.g. cash register) 589.

As shown in FIG. 16C, the bottom unit 586A comprises: a PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25′ (without LDIP subsystem 122), installed within the bottom portion of the housing 587, for projecting a coplanar PLIB and 1-D FOV through the bottom light transmission aperture 582, on the side closest to the product entry side of the system indicated by the “arrow” (

) indicator shown in the figure drawing; a I/O subsystem 127 providing data, address and control buses, and establishing data ports for data input to and data output from the PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25′; and a network controller 132, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127 and the communication medium of the local data communication network 588.

As shown in FIG. 16C, the side unit 586B comprises: a PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25′ (with LDIP subsystem 122), installed within the side portion of the housing 581, for projecting (i) a coplanar PLIB and 1-D FOV through the side light transmission aperture 583, also on the side closest to the product entry side of the system indicated by the “arrow” (

) indicator shown in the figure drawing, and also (ii) a pair of AM laser beams, angularly spaced from each other, through the side light transmission aperture 583, also on the side closest to the product entry side of the system indicated by the “arrow” (

) indicator shown in the figure drawing, but closer to the arrow indicator than the coplanar PLIB and 1-D FOV projected by the subsystem, thus locating them slightly downstream from the AM laser beams used for product dimensioning and detection; a I/O subsystem 127 for establishing data ports for data input to and data output from the PLIIM-based PIB subsystem 25′; a network controller 132, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127 and the communication medium of the local data communication network 588; and a system control computer 590, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127, for (i) receiving package identification data elements transmitted over the local data communication network by either PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25′, (ii) package dimension data elements transmitted over the local data communication network by the LDIP subsystem 122, and (iii) package weight data elements transmitted over the local data communication network by the electronic weigh scale 587. As shown, LDIP subsystem 122 includes an integrated package/object velocity measurement subsystem In order that the bioptical PLIIM-based PIDA system 580 is capable of capturing and analyzing color images, and thus enabling, in supermarket environments, “produce recognition” on the basis of color as well as dimensions and geometrical form, each PLIIM-based subsystem 25′ employs (i) a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs) having different color producing wavelengths to produce a multi-spectral planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) from the side and bottom light transmission apertures 582 and 583, and also (ii) a 1-D (linear-type) CCD image detection array for capturing color images of objects (e.g. produce) as the objects are manually transported past the imaging windows 584 and 585 of the bioptical system, along the direction of the indicator arrow, by the user or operator of the system (e.g. retail sales clerk).

Any one of the numerous methods of and apparatus for speckle-noise reduction described in great detail hereinabove can be embodied within the bioptical system 580 to provide an ultra-compact system capable of high performance image acquisition and processing operation, undaunted by speckle-noise patterns which seriously degrade the performance of prior art systems attempting to illuminate objects using solid-state VLD devices, as taught herein.

Notably, the image processing computer 21 within each PLIIM-based subsystem 25′ is provided with robust image processing software 582 that is designed to process color images captured by the subsystem and determine the shape/geometry, dimensions and color of scanned products in diverse retail shopping environments. In the illustrative embodiment, the IFD subsystem (i.e. “camera”) 3″ within the PLIIM-based subsystem 25″ is capable of: (1) capturing digital images having (i) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (ii) significantly reduced speckle-noise levels, and (iii) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (DPI) independent of package height or velocity and without the use of costly telecentric optics employed by prior art systems, (2) automatic cropping of captured images so that only regions of interest reflecting the package or package label are transmitted to either an image-processing based 1-D or 2-D bar code symbol decoder or an optical character recognition (OCR) image processor, and (3) automatic image lifting operations. Such functions are carried out in substantially the same manner as taught in connection with the tunnel-based system shown in FIGS. 27 through 32B.

In most POS retail environments, the sales clerk may pass either a UPC or UPC/EAN labeled product past the bioptical system, or an item of produce (e.g. vegetables, fruits, etc.). In the case of UPC labeled products, the image processing computer 21 will decode process images captured by the IFD subsystem 3′ (in conjunction with performing OCR processing for reading trademarks, brandnames, and other textual indicia) as the product is manually moved past the imaging windows of the system in the direction of the arrow indicator. For each product identified by the system, a product identification data element will be automatically generated and transmitted over the data communication network to the system control/management computer 590, for transmission to the host computer (e.g. cash register computer) 589 and use in check-out computations. Any dimension data captured by the LDIP subsystem 122 while identifying a UPC or UPC/EAN labeled product, can be disregarded in most instances; although, in some instances, it might make good sense that such information is automatically transmitted to the system control/management computer 590, for comparison with information in a product information database so as to cross-check that the identified product is in fact the same product indicated by the bar code symbol read by the image processing computer 21. This feature of the bioptical system can be used to increase the accurately of product identification, thereby lowering scan error rates and improving consumer confidence in POS technology.

In the case of an item of produce swept past the light transmission windows of the bioptical system, the image processing computer 21 will automatically process images captured by the IFD subsystem 3″ (using the robust produce identification software mentioned above), alone or in combination with produce dimension data collected by the LDIP subsystem 122. In the preferred embodiment, produce dimension data (generated by the LDIP subsystem 122) will be used in conjunction with produce identification data (generated by the image processing computer 21), in order to enable more reliable identification of produce items, prior to weigh in on the electronic weigh scale 587, mounted beneath the bottom imaging window 584. Thus, the image processing computer 21 within the side unit 586B (embodying the LDIP subsystem 122) can be designated as providing primary color images for produce recognition, and cross-correlation with produce dimension data generated by the LDIP subsystem 122. The image processing computer 21 within the bottom unit (without an LDIP subsystem) can be designated as providing secondary color images for produce recognition, independent of the analysis carried out within the side unit, and produce identification data generated by the bottom unit can be transmitted to the system control/management computer 590, for cross-correlation with produce identification and dimension data generated by the side unit containing the LDIP subsystem 122.

In alternative embodiments of the bioptical system described above, both the side and bottom units can be provided with an LDIP subsystem 122 for product/produce dimensioning operations. Also, it may be desirable to use a simpler set of image forming optics than that provided within IFD subsystem 3″. Also, it may desirable to use PLIIM-based subsystems which have FOVs that are automatically swept across a large 3-D scanning volume definable between the bottom and side imaging windows 584 and 585. The advantage of this type of system design is that the product or item of produce can be presented to the bioptical system without the need to move the product or produce item past the bioptical system along a predetermined scanning/imaging direction, as required in the illustrative system of FIGS. 16A through 16C. With this modification in mind, reference is now made to FIGS. 17A through 17C in which an alternative bioptical vision-based product/produce identification system 600 is disclosed employing the PLIIM-based camera system disclosed herein.

Bioptical PLIIM-Based Product Identification, Dimensioning and Analysis System of the Second Illustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

As shown in FIGS. 17A through 17C, a pair of PLIIM-based package identification (PID) systems 25″ are modified and arranged within a compact POS housing 601 having bottom and side light transmission windows 602 and 603 (beneath bottom and side imaging windows 604 and 605, respectively), to produce a bioptical PLIIM-based product identification, dimensioning and analysis (PIDA) system 600 according to a second illustrative embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 17C, the bioptical PIDA system 600 comprises: a bottom PLIIM-based unit 606A mounted within the bottom portion of the housing 601; a side PLIIM-based unit 606B mounted within the side portion of the housing 601; an electronic product weigh scale 589, mounted beneath the bottom PLIIM-based unit 606A, in a conventional manner; and a local data communication network 588, mounted within the housing, and establishing a high-speed data communication link between the bottom and side units 606A and 606B, and the electronic weigh scale 589.

As shown in FIG. 17C, the bottom unit 606A comprises: a PLIIM-based PIB subsystem 25″ (without LDIP subsystem 122), installed within the bottom portion of the housing 601, for projecting an automatically swept PLIB and a stationary 3-D FOV through the bottom light transmission window 602; a I/O subsystem 127 providing data, address and control buses, and establishing data ports for data input to and data output from the PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25″; and a network controller 132, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127 and the communication medium of the local data communication network 588.

As shown in FIG. 17C, the side unit 606A comprises: a PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25″ (with modified LDIP subsystem 122′), installed within the side portion of the housing 601, for projecting (i) an automatically swept PLIB and a stationary 3-D FOV through the bottom light transmission window 605, and also (ii) a pair of automatically swept AM laser beams 607A, 607B, angularly spaced from each other, through the side light transmission window 604; a I/O subsystem 127 for establishing data ports for data input to and data output from the PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25″; a network controller 132, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127 and the communication medium of the local data communication network 588; and a system control data management computer 609, operably connected to the I/O subsystem 127, for (i) receiving package identification data elements transmitted over the local data communication network by either PLIIM-based PID subsystem 25″, (ii) package dimension data elements transmitted over the local data communication network by the LDIP subsystem 122, and (iii) package weight data elements transmitted over the local data communication network by the electronic weigh scale 587. As shown, modified LDIP subsystem 122′ is similar in nearly all respects to LDIP subsystem 122, except that its beam folding mirror 163 is automatically oscillated during dimensioning in order to swept the pair of AM laser beams across the entire 3-D FOV of the side unit of the system when the product or produce item is positioned at rest upon the bottom imaging window 604. In the illustrative embodiment, the PLIIM-based camera subsystem 25″ is programmed to automatically capture images of its 3-D FOV to determine whether or not there is a stationary object positioned on the bottom imaging window 604 for dimensioning. When such an object is detected by this PLIIM-based subsystem, it either directly or indirectly automatically activates LDIP subsystem 122′ to commence laser scanning operations within the 3-D FOV of the side unit and dimension the product or item of produce.

In order that the bioptical PLIIM-based PIDA system 600 is capable of capturing and analyzing color images, and thus enabling, in supermarket environments, “produce recognition” on the basis of color as well as dimensions and geometrical form, each PLIM-based subsystem 25″ employs (i) a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs) having different color producing wavelengths to produce a multi-spectral planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) from the bottom and side imaging windows 604 and 605, and also (ii) a 2-D (area-type) CCD image detection array for capturing color images of objects (e.g. produce) as the objects are presented to the imaging windows of the bioptical system by the user or operator of the system (e.g. retail sales clerk).

Any one of the numerous methods of and apparatus for speckle-noise reduction described in great detail hereinabove can be embodied within the bioptical system 600 to provide an ultra-compact system capable of high performance image acquisition and processing operation, undaunted by speckle-noise patterns which seriously degrade the performance of prior art systems attempting to illuminate objects using solid-state VLD devices, as taught herein.

Notably, the image processing computer 21 within each PLIIM-based subsystem 25″ is provided with robust image processing software 610 that is designed to process color images captured by the subsystem and determine the shape/geometry, dimensions and color of scanned products in diverse retail shopping environments. In the illustrative embodiment, the IFD subsystem (i.e. “camera”) 3″ within the PLIIM-based subsystem 25″ is capable of: (1) capturing digital images having (i) square pixels (i.e. 1:1 aspect ratio) independent of package height or velocity, (ii) significantly reduced speckle-noise levels, and (iii) constant image resolution measured in dots per inch (dpi) independent of package height or velocity and without the use of costly telecentric optics employed by prior art systems, (2) automatic cropping of captured images so that only regions of interest reflecting the package or package label are transmitted to either an image-processing based 1-D or 2-D bar code symbol decoder or an optical character recognition (OCR) image processor, and (3) automatic image lifting operations. Such functions are carried out in substantially the same manner as taught in connection with the tunnel-based system shown in FIGS. 10 through 15B.

In most POS retail environments, the sales clerk may pass either a UPC or UPC/EAN labeled product past the bioptical system, or an item of produce (e.g. vegetables, fruits, etc.). In the case of UPC labeled products, the image processing computer 21 will decode process images captured by the IFD subsystem 55″ (in conjunction with performing OCR processing for reading trademarks, brandnames, and other textual indicia) as the product is manually presented to the imaging windows of the system. For each product identified by the system, a product identification data element will be automatically generated and transmitted over the data communication network to the system control/management computer 609, for transmission to the host computer (e.g. cash register computer) 589 and use in check-out computations. Any dimension data captured by the LDIP subsystem 122′ while identifying a UPC or UPC/EAN labeled product, can be disregarded in most instances; although, in some instances, it might make good sense that such information is automatically transmitted to the system control/management computer 609, for comparison with information in a product information database so as to cross-check that the identified product is in fact the same product indicated by the bar code symbol read by the image processing computer 21. This feature of the bioptical system can be used to increase the accurately of product identification, thereby lowering scan error rates and improving consumer confidence in POS technology.

In the case of an item of produce presented to the imaging windows of the bioptical system, the image processing computer 21 will automatically process images captured by the IFD subsystem 55″ (using the robust produce identification software mentioned above), alone or in combination with produce dimension data collected by the LDIP subsystem 122. In the preferred embodiment, produce dimension data (generated by the LDIP subsystem 122) will be used in conjunction with produce identification data (generated by the image processing computer 21), in order to enable more reliable identification of produce items, prior to weigh in on the electronic weigh scale 587, mounted beneath the bottom imaging window 604. Thus, the image processing computer 21 within the side unit 606B (embodying the LDIP subsystem′) can be designated as providing primary color images for produce recognition, and cross-correlation with produce dimension data generated by the LDIP subsystem 122′. The image processing computer 21 within the bottom unit 606A (without LDIP subsystem 122′) can be designated as providing secondary color images for produce recognition, independent of the analysis carried out within the side unit 606B, and produce identification data generated by the bottom unit can be transmitted to the system control/management computer 609, for cross-correlation with produce identification and dimension data generated by the side unit containing the LDIP subsystem 122′.

In alternative embodiments of the bioptical system described above, it may be desirable to use a simpler set of image forming optics than that provided within IFD subsystem 55″.

PLIIM-Based Systems Employing Planar Laser Illumination Arrays (PLIAs) with Visible Laser Diodes Having Characteristic Wavelengths Residing within Different Portions of the Visible Band

Numerous illustrative embodiments of PLIIM-based imaging systems according to the principles of the present invention have been described in detail below. While the illustrative embodiments described above have made reference to the use of multiple VLDs to construct each PLIA, and that the characteristic wavelength of each such VLD is substantially similar, the present invention contemplates providing a novel planar laser illumination and imaging module (PLIIM) which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) 6A, 6B comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes having a plurality of different characteristic wavelengths residing within different portions of the visible band. The present invention also contemplates providing such a novel PLIIM-based system, wherein the visible laser diodes within the PLIA thereof are spatially arranged so that the spectral components of each neighboring visible laser diode (VLD) spatially overlap and each portion of the composite planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) along its planar extent contains a spectrum of different characteristic wavelengths, thereby imparting multi-color illumination characteristics to the composite laser illumination beam. The multi-color illumination characteristics of the composite planar laser illumination beam will reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources in the PLIA, thereby reducing the speckle noise pattern produced at the image detection array of the PLIIM.

The present invention also contemplates providing a novel planar laser illumination and imaging module (PLIIM) which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs) which intrinsically exhibit high “spectral mode hopping” spectral characteristics which cooperate on the time domain to reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources operating in the PLIA, and thereby reduce the speckle noise pattern produced at the image detection array in the PLIIM.

The present invention also contemplates providing a novel planar laser illumination and imaging module (PLIIM) which employs a planar laser illumination array (PLIA) 6A, 6B comprising a plurality of visible laser diodes (VLDs) which are “thermally-driven” to exhibit high “mode-hopping” spectral characteristics which cooperate on the time domain to reduce the temporal coherence of the laser illumination sources operating in the PLIA, and thereby reduce the speckle-noise pattern produced at the image detection array in the PLIIM accordance with the principles of the present invention.

In some instances, it may also be desirable to use VLDs having characteristics outside of the visible band, such as in the ultra-violet (UV) and infra-red (IR) regions. In such cases, PLIIM-based subsystems will be produced capable of illuminating objects with planar laser illumination beams having IR and/or UV energy characteristics. Such systems can prove useful in diverse industrial environments where dimensioning and/or imaging in such regions of the electromagnetic spectrum are required or desired.

Modifications of the Illustrative Embodiments

While each embodiment of the PLIIM system of the present invention disclosed herein has employed a pair of planar laser illumination arrays, it is understood that in other embodiments of the present invention, only a single PLIA may be used, whereas in other embodiments three or more PLIAs may be used depending on the application at hand.

While the illustrative embodiments disclosed herein have employed electronic-type imaging detectors (e.g. 1-D and 2-D CCD-type image sensing/detecting arrays) for the clear advantages that such devices provide in bar code and other photo-electronic scanning applications, it is understood, however, that photo-optical and/or photo-chemical image detectors/sensors (e.g. optical film) can be used to practice the principles of the present invention disclosed herein.

While the package conveyor subsystems employed in the illustrative embodiments have utilized belt or roller structures to transport packages, it is understood that this subsystem can be realized in many ways, for example: using trains running on tracks passing through the laser scanning tunnel; mobile transport units running through the scanning tunnel installed in a factory environment; robotically-controlled platforms or carriages supporting packages, parcels or other bar coded objects, moving through a laser scanning tunnel subsystem.

Expectedly, the PLIIM-based systems disclosed herein will find many useful applications in diverse technical fields. Examples of such applications include, but are not limited to: automated plastic classification systems; automated road surface analysis systems; rut measurement systems; wood inspection systems; high speed 3D laser proofing sensors; stereoscopic vision systems; stroboscopic vision systems; food handling equipment; food harvesting equipment (harvesters); optical food sortation equipment; etc.

The various embodiments of the package identification and measuring system hereof have been described in connection with scanning linear (1-D) and 2-D code symbols, graphical images as practiced in the graphical scanning arts, as well as alphanumeric characters (e.g. textual information) in optical character recognition (OCR) applications. Examples of OCR applications are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,727,081 to Burges, et al, incorporated herein by reference.

It is understood that the systems, modules, devices and subsystems of the illustrative embodiments may be modified in a variety of ways which will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and having the benefit of the novel teachings disclosed herein. All such modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiments thereof shall be deemed to be within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the Claims to Invention appended hereto. 

1. A tunnel-type digital imaging system for within retail shopping environments such as supermarkets, said tunnel-type digital imaging system comprising: a tunnel configuration arranged about a conveyor structure for transporting objects through said tunnel configuration; and an image capturing and processing subsystem embodied within said tunnel configuration, and supporting a 3D digital imaging volume above said conveyor structure and within said tunnel configuration, for capturing digital images of objects transported through said 3D imaging volume; wherein said image capturing and processing subsystem includes a plurality of illumination and imaging subsystems, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem generates a light illumination beam and 3D field of view (FOV) that are projected into said 3D imaging volume for imaging of objects passing therethrough and generating digital images of each said object intersecting with one or more of said 3D FOVs; and a digital image processing subsystem for processing said digital images of objects passing through said 3D imaging volume; and a system control subsystem for controlling and/or orchestrating said coplanar illumination and imaging subsystems during system operation.
 2. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem includes one or more coherent light sources, and said plurality of coplanar light illumination beams are generated by said one or more coherent light sources.
 3. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 2, wherein said one or more light sources comprises one or more visible laser diodes (VLDs).
 4. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 2, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem further comprises a despeckling mechanism for substantially reducing the coherence of said PLIB so as to substantially reduce speckle-pattern noise power observed in said captured digital images.
 5. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem includes one or more incoherent light sources, and said plurality of PLIBs are generated by said one or more incoherent light sources.
 6. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 4, wherein said one or more incoherent light sources comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).
 7. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, wherein said digital image processing subsystem processes said digital images so as to read bar code on said objects, and generate symbol character data for each read bar code symbol.
 8. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem produces at least one 3D FOV within a predetermined region of space contained within said 3-D imaging volume.
 9. The tunnel-type digital imaging system, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem a 2D image sensing array with optics providing said 3D FOV on said 2D image sensing array.
 10. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 8, wherein said plurality of 3D FOVs are projected through said 3D imaging volume so as to support omnidirectional imaging within said 3D imaging volume.
 11. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem automatically buffers captured linear digital images and assembles these linear images to construct 2D images of the object taken along said 3D FOV; and wherein said digital image processing subsystem processes said 2D images to read one or more 1D and/or 2D code symbols graphically represented therein.
 12. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, which further comprises an object detection subsystem for automatically detecting the motion of an object that passes through said 3D imaging volume, and generating a control indication signal indicative of said detected object.
 13. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, which further comprises an electronic weigh scale disposed along said conveyor structure for weighing said objects that are automatically identified by said digital imaging operations within said tunnel configuration.
 14. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, which further comprises an object dimensioning subsystem for dimensioning objects that are automatically identified by said digital imaging operations conducted within said tunnel configuration.
 15. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 1, which further comprises a data element management subsystem for managing and linking data elements associated with the identity of objects imaged within said tunnel configuration, and other data elements selected from the group consisting of object dimension data element and object weight data element.
 16. A tunnel-type digital imaging system for use within retail shopping environments such as supermarkets, said tunnel-type digital imaging system comprising: a tunnel configuration arranged about a conveyor structure for transporting objects through said tunnel configuration; and an image capturing and processing subsystem embodied within said tunnel configuration, and supporting a 3D digital imaging volume above said conveyor structure and within said tunnel configuration, for capturing digital images of objects transported through said 3D imaging volume; wherein said image capturing and processing subsystem includes a plurality of illumination and imaging stations; wherein each illumination and imaging station includes (i) a 2D imaging array having optics providing a 3D field of view (FOV) on said 2D imaging array that is projected and extends into said 3D imaging volume; and (ii) one or more light emitting devices configured together to produce a illumination beam that extends into the 3D FOV of said 2D imaging array; wherein said plurality of 3D FOVs project through and intersect within said 3D imaging volume, for imaging of objects passed therethrough and generating digital images of each said object intersecting with one or more of said illumination and imaging planes; a digital image processing subsystem for processing said digital images of objects passing through said 3D imaging volume; and a system control subsystem for controlling and/or orchestrating said coplanar illumination and imaging subsystems during system operation.
 17. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem includes one or more coherent light sources, and said plurality of light illumination beams are generated by said one or more coherent light sources.
 18. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 17, wherein said one or more light sources comprises one or more visible laser diodes (VLDs).
 19. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 17, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem further comprises a despeckling mechanism for substantially reducing the coherence of said PLIB so as to substantially reduce speckle-pattern noise power observed in said captured digital images.
 20. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem includes one or more incoherent light sources, and said plurality of PLIBs are generated by said one or more incoherent light sources.
 21. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 20, wherein said array of incoherent light sources comprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs).
 22. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, wherein said digital image processing subsystem processes said digital images so as to read bar code on said objects, and generate symbol character data for each read bar code symbol.
 23. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, wherein each said illumination and imaging subsystem produces at least one 3D FOV within a predetermined region of space contained within said 3-D imaging volume.
 24. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, wherein said plurality 3D FOVs are projected through said 3D imaging volume so as to provide omnidirectional imaging coverage within said 3D imaging volume.
 25. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, which further comprises an object detection subsystem for automatically detecting the motion of an object that passes through said 3D imaging volume, and generating a control indication signal indicative of said detected object.
 26. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, which further comprises an electronic weigh scale disposed along said conveyor structure for weighing said objects that are automatically identified by said digital imaging operations within said tunnel configuration.
 27. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, which further comprises an object dimensioning subsystem for dimensioning objects that are automatically identified by said digital imaging operations conducted within said tunnel configuration.
 28. The tunnel-type digital imaging system of claim 16, which further comprises a data element management subsystem for managing and linking data elements associated with the identity of objects imaged within said tunnel configuration, and other data elements selected from the group consisting of object dimension data element and object weight data element. 